Indentifying Interrogative Pronouns

Interrogative Pronouns

Interrogative pronouns are aptly named. They basically stand in for the answer to the question being asked. When they are not acting as interrogative pronouns, some may act as relative pronouns. Once again, it depends on their function in the sentence.

Interrogative pronoun are always found in questions:

(Interrogative pronoun)-- Who, Whom, Which, What, Whose

Remember: Who = Subject

Whom = Object

In these examples, the interrogative pronoun stands in for the answer to the question.

Who saw the future clearly? Who embraced it?
Whom did she choose from the Carter White House?
Which would you prefer from your president?
What was his most impressive example of presidential leadership?
Whose are you going to choose for the exhibit?

In these examples, the same words are relative pronoun.

The man whom she chose will do a wonderful job.
The Grand Canyon, which is remarkable, is Eldon's favorite place to visit.
Our guy next door, who is on trial, never did fit into the neighborhood.

In these examples, the same words are personal pronoun.

You will need to decide which is the best product.
Frank will decide whom the animals will work with.
We all decided who will lead the parade.

To begin studying reflexive pronouns, please go to the next page.