That vs Which — What’s the Difference?

Added: 2026-05-25

[00:00:00]So, what about the difference between which and that?

[00:00:04]Think of it like this.

[00:00:06]That gives you essential information so you can understand what I'm talking about. For example, the book that has the red cover is expensive. That has the red cover is essential information for you to understand.

[00:00:28]Which just gives extra information. The sentence doesn't need it.

[00:00:35]For example, the book, which I bought yesterday, is expensive.

[00:00:42]You don't need which I bought yesterday.

[00:00:45]You understand the book is expensive.

[00:00:49]So, that identifies.

[00:00:53]Which just adds information.

[00:00:56]In everyday English, people normally mix them. And formal written English, we normally use commas with which.

[00:01:07]But this is the basic idea.

[00:01:10]Small difference. Speak clearly and be understood.