What’s the Difference Between ‘What’ and ‘Which’? A Simple Guide

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English can be tricky at times, especially when we have two words like “what” and “which” that seem so similar, yet can mean very different things depending on the context.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether you should be using one over the other, you’re not alone!

Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with a friendly and simple guide to understand the difference between these two words.

Understanding ‘What’ and ‘Which’: A Quick Overview

Both “what” and “which” are interrogative pronouns used to ask questions, but the key difference between them lies in the context in which they’re used. “What” is more general, while “which” is often more specific.

Let’s dive into how that works in practice.

When to Use ‘What’

We use “what” when we are asking for general information or when there is an open-ended range of possibilities.

It’s perfect for situations where we don’t have a fixed list of options to choose from.

Here are some scenarios where you should use “what”:

• General Questions: When you want to inquire about something in a broad sense, without narrowing it down to a specific set of options.

  • Example: What do you want for dinner?
    (Here, the possibilities are endless—there could be anything on the menu!)

• Describing Things: When you want to know more about a thing, object, or idea.

  • Example: What is your favorite book? (You’re asking for a range of possibilities—any book that the person might like!)

• Clarifications: When asking for a specific piece of information without constraints.

  • Example: What is the time?
    (You’re just asking for the current time, no limits on options.)

In short, use “what” when you’re asking for something broad, open-ended, or general.

When to Use ‘Which’

Now, let’s look at “which.” “Which” is used when you have a limited set of options, and you’re asking the person to choose from those specific options.

It’s used for more definitive, narrowed-down choices.

Here are a few scenarios for “which”:

• Specific Choices: When you’re asking about a particular set of options or choices, where the answer is not open-ended.

  • Example: Which color do you prefer, red or blue?
    (Here, you’re asking the person to pick between the limited options of red and blue.)

• Referring to Known Options: When the options are known to both you and the person you’re speaking with.

  • Example: Which movie would you like to see, “The Matrix” or “Inception”?
    (The person knows the options and must choose from the two.)

• Selecting From a Defined Group: When the group of options is small and defined.

  • Example: Which of these books would you recommend?
    (There’s a specific set of books you’re talking about.)

In summary, use “which” when you’re offering a choice between specific, known options.

The Subtle Difference in Usage

While “what” can feel like an open invitation to any answer, “which” provides a more structured, narrowed-down feel.

For example:

• What is your favorite movie?
  (This is broad.

  The answer could be any movie.)

• Which movie do you want to watch tonight?
  (This is specific—there’s a small set of movies being considered.)

Even though these two words are often used interchangeably in casual conversation, the underlying structure of the question and the choices available are what truly differentiate them.

Examples to Help You Decide:

Let’s look at a few more examples to help cement this idea:

• What are you planning to do this weekend?
  (You’re asking about plans in general, not specific options.)

• Which plans do you have for the weekend?
  (Here, you’re asking about specific plans that the person already knows about.)

• What is the weather like today?
  (You’re asking for a broad answer—what is the weather like, generally.)

• Which jacket should I wear today, the black one or the blue one?
  (You’re asking for a decision between two specific choices.)

The Exceptions: Can ‘What’ Be Used in Place of ‘Which’?

In some situations, “what” can be used even when you’re narrowing down a set of options, but it still gives a more open-ended vibe.

For example:

• What shirt are you wearing today?
  (Even though there’s a choice of shirts, the question is still more general.)

• Which shirt are you wearing today?
  (This could imply you are choosing between a specific set of shirts.)

In casual conversation, people may use “what” even when they could technically use “which”.

But when in doubt, think about whether you’re giving a list of known choices—if you are, use “which”.

If you’re asking for something broad or undefined, go with “what.”

Wrapping Up: A Quick Recap

To sum up:

• Use “what” when you’re asking about general, open-ended information or when there are many possibilities.

• Use “which” when you have a limited set of options or choices, and you’re asking for a decision between them.

The key is to think about whether you’re asking for something specific (which) or something broad (what).

Once you have that in mind, choosing between “what” and “which” will become a lot easier!

So, next time you’re questioning whether to say “What time is it?” or “Which time works best for you?” you’ll know exactly which word to choose!

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