Using the Objective Case
1. Use the objective case to show a direct object.
A direct object is a noun or pronoun that receives the action.
John’s suit no longer fits (he, him).
Answer: John’s suit no longer fits him.
(Who, Whom) did she finally invite to the dinner party?
Answer: She is the subject, the person doing the action.
Therefore, the sentence should read: “Whom did she finally invite to the dinner party?”
Of course, she can invite (whoever, whomever) she wants.
Answer: Of course, she can invite whomever she wants.
Quick Tip
When you have a pronoun combined with a noun (such as we guests, us guests), try the sentence without the noun. You can usually “hear” which pronoun sounds right.
It is always a pleasure for we to attend their party.
It is always a pleasure for us to attend their party.
The second sentence is correct.
2. Use the objective case to show an indirect object.
An indirect object tells to or for whom something is done. You can tell a word is an indirect object if you can insert to or for before it without changing the meaning.
For example:
“The book gave (to) my boss and (to) me some new strategies.”
The bill gave (we, us) a shock.
Answer: The bill gave us a shock.
3. Use the objective case for the object of a preposition.
Remember that a preposition is a small word that links a noun or a pronoun following it to another word in the sentence.
Sit by (I, me).
Answer: The pronoun is the object of the preposition me, so the sentence reads: “Sit by me.”
