Problems With Pronouns (5): Relative Pronouns Which Refer to Persons and Things.

(She is [the secretary] [who] works in the international office)

- She is
- (someone): the secretary
- (who): who
- works in the international office

Avoid using (which) instead of (who) in reference to a person.

(This is [the new typewriter] [which] you ordered)

- This is
- (something): the new typewriter
- (which): which
- you ordered

Avoid using (who) instead of (which) in reference to a thing.

Examples:

Incorrect: (The people) (which) cheated on the examination had to leave the room.
Correct: (The people) (who) cheated on the examination had to leave the room.

Incorrect: There is (someone) on line two (which) would like to speak with you.
Correct: There is (someone) on line two (who) would like to speak with you.

Incorrect: Who is (the man) (which) asked the question?
Correct: Who is (the man) (who) asked the question?

Incorrect: (The person) (which) was recommended for the position did not fulfill the minimum requirements.
Correct: (The person) (who) was recommended for the position did not fulfill the minimum requirements.

Incorrect: (The student) (which) receives the highest score will be awarded a scholarship.
Correct: (The student) (who) receives the highest score will be awarded a scholarship.