"To whom" vs "for whom"

Question

"To whom" vs "for whom"

Both 'for whom' and 'to whom' are correct phrases in English, but they are used in different contexts. 'For whom' is used when asking about the recipient of an action or benefit, while 'to whom' is used when asking about the recipient of something being given or sent. They are both formal and less commonly used in everyday conversation.

Last Updated: March 30, 2024

Use 'to whom' when you want to ask about the person who is the recipient of something being given or sent. It is a formal construction and less commonly used in everyday conversation.

Examples:

To whom should I address this letter?
I wonder to whom this package is being sent.

Alternatives:

Who should I address this letter to?
I wonder who this package is being sent to.

Use 'for whom' when you want to ask about the person who is the recipient of an action or benefit. It is a formal construction and less commonly used in everyday conversation.

Examples:

For whom is this gift intended?
I need to know for whom this message is intended.

Alternatives:

Who is this gift intended for?
I need to know who this message is intended for.

Answer 1

To whom

The phrase 'to whom' is correct and formal in English. It is used when asking about the recipient of something being given or sent.

Answer 2

for whom

The phrase 'for whom' is correct and formal in English. It is used when asking about the recipient of an action or benefit.

"To whom" vs "for whom"

To whom

for whom

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