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To: econjack

Chicago Manual of Style, 14th edition, to start.


23 posted on 11/13/2025 9:04:18 AM PST by TheThirdRuffian (Orange is the new brown)
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To: TheThirdRuffian; econjack

Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of English Usage (1989): “The notion that that should not be used to refer to persons is without foundation; such use is entirely standard.” It traces the interchangeability back centuries and deems both correct in standard English.

Garner’s Modern English Usage (5th Edition, 2022): Classifies the restriction against “that” for people as a “skunked term” (a debated usage in flux), but affirms both are valid, with “who” more formal.


24 posted on 11/13/2025 9:34:15 AM PST by MeanWestTexan (Sometimes There Is No Lesser Of Two Evils)
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To: TheThirdRuffian

Easy rule: “That” is used with objects, “who” is used with human(s). There are exceptions, but this one is correct most of the time.


27 posted on 11/13/2025 11:21:17 AM PST by econjack
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