ESL Usage Lesson: that which / those who

This lesson teaches students the correct usage of “that which” and “those “who”.

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that which

This means “what” or “the thing that”

· You cannot change that which has already happened.

You cannot change what has already happened.

· The politicians are focused on that which is most important for helping the economy.

The politicians are focused on what is most important for the economy.

· The earthquake destroyed that which was most special about the city – its oldest buildings.

The earthquake destroyed what was most special about the city – its oldest buildings.

those who / he who / she who

Similar to “that which,” but used when talking about people rather than things.

· The intended audience for the artist’s paintings is those who appreciate vibrant colors.

The intended audience for the artist’s paintings is whoever appreciates vibrant colors.

· Those who would sacrifice freedom for security deserve neither.

Anyone who would sacrifice freedom for security deserves neither.

· We need to prevent those who drop out of school from becoming criminals.

We need to prevent people who drop out of school from becoming criminals.

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Rewrite these sentences using “that which”

1. Did you understand what the teacher was talking about?

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2. What is expensive is not necessarily of higher quality.

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3. You should only take what you personally need, and nothing more.

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4. Inattention to details is what annoys my boss the most.

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Now, rewrite the following sentences using “those who” (or “he who” or “she who”):

1. Whoever votes for the war should have to go fight.

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2. My favorite teachers were the ones who encouraged discussions.

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3. I never believe anyone who doesn’t look me in the eye.

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4. Are people who steal out of desperation guilty of a crime?

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