Relative pronouns for animals

Some grammar rules (and embarrassing mistakes!) transcend the uniqueness of different regions and style guides. This new International Grammar section by OnlineBookClub.org ultimately identifies those rules thus providing a simple, flexible rule-set, respecting the differences between regions and style guides. You can feel free to ask general questions about spelling and grammar. You can also provide example sentences for other members to proofread and inform you of any grammar mistakes.

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shravsi
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Icon Relative pronouns for animals

Post by shravsi »

I am currently reading a book about Orca whales. Can you please share your thoughts about using relative pronouns for animals-who, that, which.

The Ocra whale has a name, Tahlequah.

While AP style says animals with names should be referred to as who, Chicago style and APA style says animals should be referred to as that/which.

Which style should I follow for my book review?
Which style guide do you follow in general?

Which sentence do you think is grammatically correct?

1) Some of you might have heard about the orca whale Tahlequah, which carried her dead baby for 17 days.
2) Some of you might have heard about the orca whale Tahlequah, who carried her dead baby for 17 days.
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MrsCatInTheHat
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Post by MrsCatInTheHat »

I would use "who," not "which."
Life without a good book is something MrsCatInTheHat cannot imagine.
shravsi
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Post by shravsi »

MrsCatInTheHat wrote: 20 Jul 2021, 08:31 I would use "who," not "which."
Thank you :)
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