Topic: that vs which - weird case?

I came across an interesting case of that vs. which, and I can't tell which is best to use.

He didn’t dare wait for an opportunity that might never come to stab the man.
He didn’t dare wait for an opportunity, which might never come, to stab the man.

I know the second example is correct, but I'm not sure if the first one is. Or are both correct?

Thanks
Dirk

Quote Post 1

Re: that vs which - weird case?

Dirk ...

If the clause following the word (that or which) would change the general meaning or definition of the sentence if omitted, use "that". Otherwise, use "which" should be used. That's what i was taught at the University of Maryland many, many years ago. I think (though not sure) that rule still holds true today. Hope that helps.

Alan

Quote Post 2

Re: that vs which - weird case?

Yes, those rules are discussed on most grammar sites. However, in the examples I gave, I can't tell if the two examples are equivalent of not. As I noted above, example two is correct and what I intend as the meaning. What then is example one saying, if not the same thing?

Quote Post 3

Re: that vs which - weird case?

I believe either one would be fine in a novel setting, but why haggle when you can simply eliminate the indecision with: "He didn't dare wait for a dicey opportunity to stab the man." or such. Take care. Vern

Quote Post 4

Re: that vs which - weird case?

Why would a dicey opportunity stab the man?  :-)
Point taken.
Thanks

Quote Post 5