When to Use That vs Which
A common mistake in writing is misusing the words that or which. It’s a battle that many writers struggle to get right.
Frankly, it all boils down to the defining clause.
That is used to introduce a defining clause. If this clause is left out, the meaning of the sentence will change.
Which is used for a non-defining clause. If this clause is omitted, the meaning of the sentence will not change.
Examples:
The antibody that is bound to the receptor at the cell membrane.
The antibody, which is bound to the receptor, is located at the cell membrane.
What is an easy way to remember which word to use? If removing the phrase following the word would change the meaning of the sentence, use that. Otherwise, use which.
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