Oops. Your interactive is showing. Yes, you. The web writer who used that instead of who.
To oversimplify, here is the rule for relative pronouns: That is for animals and things. Who is for people.
Correct:
The web writer who used that instead of who.
Incorrect:
The web writer that used that instead of who.
Yes, there are exceptions to the rule (see the Chicago Manual of Style, 5.58–5.60). And there are usage experts who argue that no distinction needs to be made (see Theodore M. Bernstein and H. W. Fowler).
I favor making the distinction. I think it makes one's writing sound more dignified, less digital.
To me, that's a good thing.
Sighted. Cited."Reynolds' presentation Saturday was preceded by a summary of what JoAnne Berkenkamp has learned in her discussions with all the "lunch ladies" around the state that are dipping their toes into farm-to-school efforts."
—Twin Cities Daily Planet, March 1, 2010
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