Let´s learn when to use “what” and “which” in different situations.
What: is used when there is an unlimited choice (lots of possibilities).
Which: is used where there is a limited choice (fewer possibilities).
“Which” and “what” are both pronouns used to ask questions or to refer to something unspecified. However, they are used in slightly different contexts:
- “Which”:
- “Which” is used when you are asking about a specific item or a limited set of options, implying a choice between alternatives.
- Example: “Which book do you prefer, the red one or the blue one?”
- Example: “Which restaurant should we go to tonight?”
- “Which” is also used to inquire about a particular one or ones out of a group.
- Example: “Which car is yours?”
- “What”:
- “What” is used when you are asking for information about something in general or when the options are not limited or specified.
- Example: “What is your favorite color?”
- Example: “What time does the movie start?”
- “What” is also used to ask for identification or to introduce a clause that defines something.
- Example: “What is that strange noise?”
- Example: “I don’t understand what you mean.”
In summary, “which” is used when there is a specific choice or selection among options, while “what” is used for general inquiries or when the options are not specified.
What + noun
– What color is your shirt?
– What time is it?
Which + noun (things or people)
– Which bus did you catch -the 8 or the 9-?
– Which lawyer did you see -Dr. Dohan or Dr. Jill-?
We use which without a noun for things, not people.
– Which is bigger Africa or Asia?
– Which is better Nike or Adidas?
We use which when we have a limited option. Which for choices and limited groups.
– Among these five jackets, which is yours?
– Which beer do you prefer, Corona or Budweiser?
– Which browser do you use, Google Chrome or Internet Explorer?
What is more general.
– What car would you like to buy?
– What is the capital of Australia?
– What are you doing?
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