‘Which’ and ‘in which’ are both relative pronouns frequently used in English, playing super important roles in connecting clauses. However, their usage is not interchangeable; they serve different grammatical purposes and fits specific contexts. Using them correctly will make your writing clearer and more impressive. Let’s explore their key differences and proper usage.
Function of “Which”
“Which” is a helper word or a pointer that connects parts of a sentence. It points to a specific noun or noun phrase that you’ve already mentioned or that is clear from the context. It helps you add extra information about that noun. It’s like saying, “Hey, remember that thing I mentioned? Here’s some more detail about it.”
Here’s how it functions:
- Providing Additional Information: Use ‘which’ to introduce a non-restrictive clause. This type of clause adds supplementary information that you can remove without changing the sentence’s core meaning. Unlike restrictive clauses that use ‘that,’ writers typically set off these non-restrictive clauses with commas.
- Example: “My phone, which I bought last Diwali, has amazing camera quality.” Here, “which I bought last Diwali” gives extra information about my phone.
- Clarifying or Specifying: Use ‘which’ to clarify or provide more details about the specific item or situation you’re discussing, especially when it’s unclear or a need for further explanation.
- Example: “I like the movie which you recommended last week.” Here, “which” specifies which movie from potentially many is being discussed.
- Asking Questions: We commonly use “which” in questions to inquire about options or choices from a set or group.
- Example: “Which color do you prefer for the walls?”
- In Formal Language: In formal writing or speech, we can use “which” in a structured way to link ideas or make complex sentences more elegant.
- Example: “The report, which was compiled over several months, provides a comprehensive overview of the project.”
Remember, when removing the clause from a sentence, “which” doesn’t change the core meaning of the sentence. Instead, it provides additional context for understanding.
Function of “In Which”
Now, “in which” is a bit more specific. It combines “which” with the preposition “in.” This means you’re not just adding information; you’re adding information about where something happens or within what something exists.
- Showing location or context: “In which” tells us that something is happening inside or within the thing “which” is referring to.
- Example: “The box, in which I kept my old photos, is in the attic.” Here, “in which I kept my old photos” tells us what was inside the box.
- Describing a situation or circumstance:
- Example: “The situation, in which we find ourselves, is quite challenging.” Here, “in which we find ourselves” describes the nature of the “situation.”
The “In” Makes the Difference
The main difference lies in the “in.” If you can logically add “in” before “which” and the sentence still makes sense, then “in which” is likely the correct choice. If adding “in” makes it sound odd, stick with “which.”
Let’s look at the examples we had earlier with this logic:
- My bicycle, in which is red, is parked outside. – Makes no sense, so “which” is correct.
- The box, which I kept my old photos, is in the attic. – “The box, in which I kept my old photos…” makes perfect sense, so “in which” is correct.
- The situation, which we find ourselves, is quite challenging. – “The situation, in which we find ourselves…” seems natural, hence “in which” is right.
Tricky Cases – Sometimes “In” Can Go Elsewhere!
Sometimes, you might find the “in” placed at the end of the clause, but it still belongs with the “which” concept.
- Example: “The house which I live in is very old.” Here the “in” is separated, but if we rearrange it slightly:
- “The house in which I live is very old.” – It still holds true. This sentence could use either option, but placing “in” at the end gives it a more casual tone.
Exercise: Correct Usage of “Which” and “In Which” in Sentences
Here are some sentences. See if you can fill in the blanks with “which” or “in which”:
- This is the movie ____________ won the Oscar last year.
- The town ____________ I live is very small.
- He created a system ____________ all tasks are automated.
- Tell me the name of the shop __________ sells the best samosas in town.
- The exam, _________ was three hours long, felt like an eternity.
- The year __________ I graduated from college was the best year of my life.
- Tell me the story of the hero ____________ saved the village.
- The house ____________ he grew up has been renovated.
- This is the book ____________ inspired me to travel the world.
- I remember the day ____________ we first met; it was raining.
Answers:
- which
- in which
- in which
- which
- which
- in which
- which
- in which
- which
- in which
Quick Reference Table: Which vs In Which
| Feature | Which | In Which |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Relative pronoun | Prepositional phrase |
| Function | – Introduces a relative clause – Adds information about a noun or pronoun | – Introduces a prepositional phrase – Shows location or situation |
| Usage | – To specify among options. – To introduce non-essential information. – To identify or describe something. | – To indicate location. – To describe a situation or context. – In formal or written English. |
| Position | Can be at the beginning or end of a relative clause | Usually at the beginning of a prepositional phrase |
| Formality | Suitable for both formal and informal usage. | Preferred in formal writing or professional contexts. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing when to use “which” versus “in which” can significantly improve your English. “Which” is generally more common, but “in which” brings a level of formality and accuracy, particularly when discussing places or contexts.
By understanding the roles of “which” and “in which,” you’ll be able to write and speak with greater clarity and precision. So go ahead, experiment with these words, and soon you’ll be using them like a pro!
Have questions about grammar? Let us know in the comments!