Questions can invite an open answer or point to a known set.
The idea
Use which when the speaker has a limited set in mind; use what for a more open range. Both can precede a noun. Which of introduces a specified group. The boundary depends on context, so either word can sometimes be natural.
Examples
- Which of these two paths is shorter?
- What music do you enjoy?
- Which cup is yours, the blue one or the green one?
- What language do they speak at home?
- Which of the three photos should we print?
- What would you like for breakfast?
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Watch out
Do not assume which always requires exactly two options: a group can contain more.
Try it yourself
Choose the option indicated by the context. Between red and yellow: ___ colour do you prefer? (Which / What)
Show answer or example answer
Which
Which points to the two named colours.
Choose the option indicated by the context. An open question: ___ job would you like? (What / Which of)
Show answer or example answer
What
What asks openly about a job, without a stated set.
Choose the option indicated by the context. ___ of these four keys opens the gate? (Which / What)
Show answer or example answer
Which
Which introduces the specified group with of.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the option indicated by the context. Between red and yellow: ___ colour do you prefer? (Which / What)
Choose the option indicated by the context. An open question: ___ job would you like? (What / Which of)
Choose the option indicated by the context. ___ of these four keys opens the gate? (Which / What)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Ask one open question about food and one question about a choice between two books.