through whom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'through whom' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in a variety of contexts to refer to a person or thing that is being used as an intermediary. For example: We received our funding through a grant-making organization, through whom we were able to complete the project.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"But woe unto him through whom they come!

The New York Times

Genesis says it was Isaac, through whom Jews trace their people's descent from the patriarch Abraham; the Koran names Ishmael, through whom Arabs trace their descent.

The New York Times

Jesus Christ is God's agent, through whom sinful humans can be reconciled to God.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And so, a little predictably, he becomes a medium through whom Agnes reveals her story.

The New York Times - Books

Who is it through whom the moon now waxes now wanes?

Encyclopedia Britannica

Corn was regarded as a symbolic mother through whom the sun god bestowed his blessing.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There has to be somebody still alive through whom you can hear that story.

The Guardian - Books

But there are no surrogates onstage through whom that fear can be channeled to the audience.

The New York Times - Arts

He was the conduit through whom Emma Nicholson crossed from the Tories to the Liberal Democrats.

The Guardian

This is the YOLO generation, through whom he might miraculously be able to live once again.

The Guardian - Film

Hugo and Mahmoud, through whom I met you, trailed after us that first evening.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "through whom" to clearly indicate that a person is acting as an intermediary or channel. For example, "We received the information through a colleague, through whom we understood the urgency."

Common error

Avoid using "through whom" in very informal contexts. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "who" or "that" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

"Through whom" serves as a prepositional phrase introducing a relative clause, specifying the person or entity acting as an intermediary or channel. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is correct and commonly used. It connects a main clause to a subordinate clause, indicating agency or means.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

27%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "through whom" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a relative clause. It specifies the intermediary facilitating an action or transmission, as validated by Ludwig AI. While versatile, its formal tone makes it most suitable for news, encyclopedic entries, and professional contexts. Remember to consider simpler alternatives in informal settings for greater clarity. Using "through whom" correctly can significantly enhance the precision and clarity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by means of whom

Emphasizes the method or instrument used to achieve something, placing focus on the intermediary.

via whom

Indicates passage or transmission through a particular person, often suggesting a more direct route.

by whose agency

Highlights the action or intervention of a person in bringing about a result, stressing responsibility.

through whose intervention

Focuses on the act of interceding or interfering to affect an outcome, specifying active involvement.

with the help of whom

Emphasizes assistance or support received from someone, underlining their contribution.

using whom as an intermediary

Explicitly describes the use of a person as a go-between or mediator, highlighting their role in facilitating communication or action.

by way of whom

Suggests a more indirect or circuitous route of transmission, often implying a less direct connection.

thanks to whom

Expresses gratitude for someone's role in achieving a positive outcome, emphasizing their beneficial impact.

from whom

Indicates the source or origin from which something is received, placing focus on the person providing it.

with whom as the conduit

Highlights the person's role as a channel or pathway for something to pass through, emphasizing their function as a facilitator.

FAQs

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

Use "through whom" to show that someone is an intermediary or a channel for something. For example: "The message was delivered through John, "through whom" we learned of the changes."

What are some alternatives to "through whom"?

Alternatives include "by means of whom", "via whom", or simply using a relative clause with "who". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is it always necessary to use "through whom" or can I rephrase the sentence?

You can often rephrase the sentence for clarity and conciseness. For instance, instead of "The funds, through whom the project was completed, were substantial", you could say "The funds enabled the project's completion".

What is the difference between "through whom" and "by whom"?

"Through whom" implies a channel or intermediary, while "by whom" refers to the agent performing an action. For example: "The book, written "by whom"?" vs. "The information, "through whom" did it arrive?".