In the last post we used the colloquial suffixes -size and -sized to demonstrate the importance of precision of language in more effective technical writing. In this post we continue that theme by observing the difference between two very similar yet different expressions: whose and of which.
A form of the word who (which clearly denotes a person), whose is used with people. In contrast, of which is used with inanimate objects, since the word which does not denote or connote any sense of personality.
Consider the example sentence in the cropped graphic above. Some might consider the use of whose here an exception to the rule, since following the rule produces a sentence that sounds awkward to some.
A form of the word who (which clearly denotes a person), whose is used with people. In contrast, of which is used with inanimate objects, since the word which does not denote or connote any sense of personality.
Consider the example sentence in the cropped graphic above. Some might consider the use of whose here an exception to the rule, since following the rule produces a sentence that sounds awkward to some.
There are some fields, however, in which totals should never be zero.
The fields referenced are in the user interface of a software program. I disagree with those who claim an exception can be made here. Yes, I can see how in which can sound awkward. That’s why I would replace in which not with whose but rather with for which.
There are some fields, however, for which the totals should never be zero.
Be one whose writing uses of which with inanimate objects. More precise language produces more effective technical writing. And more effective technical writing provides a better presentation of both you and your brand.
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