The Difference Between "That" and "Which"

After seeing these two words vastly misused in the past week, I figured I should clear things up.


"That" is part of a restrictive clause. This means that you HAVE to have the clause or the sentence won't make sense. For example... Cats THAT are black are popular during Halloween.


"Which" is not restrictive, so you can add it onto the end of a complete sentence. For example... Black cats are popular at Halloween, WHICH is why I'm decorating my house with them.


Those aren't very good examples, but you get my point.


Sooooo if you NEED the clause, use "that." If not, use "which."

You're welcome, world.