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"Por la que" is a phrase which is often translated as "by which", and "a quién" is a phrase which is often translated as "to whom". Learn more about the difference between "por la que" and "a quién" below.
por la que(
pohr
 
lah
 
keh
)
A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
phrase
a. by which
La ruta por la que se administrará el medicamento depende de la droga en sí.The route by which the medication will be administered is dictated by the drug itself.
a. through which
Había sangre en la ventana por la que escaparon los ladrones.There was blood on the window through which the burglars escaped.
a. why
Se desconoce la razón por la que no vino.The reason why he didn't come is unknown.
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a quién(
ah
 
kyehn
)
A phrase is a group of words commonly used together (e.g., once upon a time).
phrase
a. to whom
A word or phrase used to refer to the second person formal “usted” by their conjugation or implied context (e.g., usted).
(formal)
¿A quién le vendió su casa?To whom did you sell your house?
b. whom
¿A quién fuiste a visitar esta tarde?Whom did you visit today?
c. who
¿A quién le falta libro?Who hasn't got a book?
a. to whom
Si no sabe a quién dirigir la carta, llame y pregunte.If you don't know to whom you should address the letter, inquire about it over the phone.
b. whom
No vas a adivinar a quién he visto hoy.You'll never guess whom I saw today.
c. who
Me pregunto a quién le podría interesar.I wonder who might be interested.
a. who
¡A quién le importa eso ahora!Who cares about that now!
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