in whom

USAGE SUMMARY

"in whom" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to someone or something that is the object of a preposition. For example, you could say, "She is a leader in whom I trust."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In whom?

The New York Times

In whom should we trust?

The New Yorker

Courts differ in whom they accept.

The Economist

Two patients with LS are presented in whom OMMP developed.

Ophthalmology

We present 13 patients in whom this technique was applied.

Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

We follow people in whom we believe.

Harvard Business Review

Clement, in whom black bile generously flows, works at home.

The New Yorker

One enemy in whom I planted sixteen seeds.

The New Yorker

Paterno is the one in whom so much was invested.

The New York Times - Sports

In whom or what, then, does Neil place his faith?

The New York Times

(What changes are to be brought about? In whom?

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in whom" primarily in formal writing or when a more elevated tone is desired. In more casual contexts, consider using "who" with the preposition placed later in the sentence (e.g., "Who do you believe in?").

Common error

Avoid separating "in" too far from "whom" in formal writing. While ending a sentence with a preposition is acceptable in informal contexts, maintaining the "in whom" structure keeps the writing clear and professional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in whom" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a relative clause. It modifies a noun or pronoun, specifying a characteristic or relationship. Ludwig AI indicates its correct usage in English, supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

27%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in whom" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to introduce relative clauses, typically in formal writing. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it specifies a relationship, characteristic, or quality of a person. While common, its formal tone may not suit all contexts, and simpler alternatives using "who" may be preferable in informal settings. The phrase sees frequent use in scientific and news media sources. When writing, avoid separating "in" and "whom" too much to keep it clear. Examples in Ludwig further illustrate this principle.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to whom

This is a common alternative that emphasizes the recipient or target of an action or attribute.

of whom

This alternative denotes possession or belonging, indicating a characteristic or quality of the person.

about whom

This phrase replaces "in" with "about", offering a more direct and common way to refer to the subject of the sentence.

with whom

This option indicates association or accompaniment, focusing on a relationship between individuals.

for whom

This alternative emphasizes the beneficiary or the one receiving an action or benefit.

regarding whom

This phrase replaces the preposition "in" with "regarding", shifting the focus to the topic or person being discussed.

by whom

This phrase is used to identify the agent performing an action, often in passive constructions.

from whom

This phrase indicates the source or origin of something, often in the context of receiving information or an object.

concerning whom

Similar to "regarding whom", this option is more formal and emphasizes the topic or matter at hand.

on whom

This phrase focuses on something being placed or dependent upon someone.

FAQs

How can I use "in whom" in a sentence?

Use "in whom" to refer to someone as the object of a preposition, typically in formal contexts. For example, "He is a leader "in whom" many have placed their trust."

What's a simpler alternative to "in whom"?

In less formal situations, you can rephrase sentences to use "who" and move the preposition. For example, instead of "She's someone "in whom" I confide", you could say, "She's someone who I confide in."

Is it ever wrong to use "in whom"?

While grammatically correct, "in whom" can sound overly formal in everyday conversation. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing; a simpler construction might be more appropriate in informal settings.

Which is more correct, "in whom" or "who"?

Both are correct, but they suit different contexts. "In whom" is more formal and grammatically precise, while using "who" with a trailing preposition is generally acceptable in modern, informal English. The choice depends on the desired tone and formality of the writing.