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"That is why" and "which is why"

Question
"That is why" and "which is why"
Answer

That is why and which is why can be similar in meaning but function in different ways in a sentence.

 

In that is why, that is a demonstrative pronoun.

In which is why, which is a relative pronoun.

That in that is why is usually the subject of a sentence or a clause that can stand alone:

I want to be involved in town government, and that is why I'm running for mayor.

My mother always gives me good advice, so that is why I need to ask her opinion.

His last movie was terrible, and I think that is why his career has stalled in recent years. 

 

Which is why is used to introduce a subordinate clause (one that does not form a sentence by itself):

Motorcycles are dangerous, which is why we should wear helmets.

The company went bankrupt, which is why their new building is unfinished.

The sunsets here are beautiful, which is why many artists come to paint them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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