Which Sentence Uses An Apostrophe Correctly

Which Sentence Uses an Apostrophe Correctly? A Comprehensive Guide

Apostrophes, those little marks that look like tiny upside-down commas, are often a source of confusion for writers. They're deceptively simple, but mastering their usage is crucial for clear and grammatically correct writing. This comprehensive guide will explore the correct usage of apostrophes, focusing on common mistakes and offering clear examples to help you confidently conquer this punctuation puzzle. We'll delve into the core functions of apostrophes: indicating possession and marking contractions. Understanding these two key uses will greatly improve the accuracy and clarity of your writing.

The Two Main Roles of the Apostrophe: Possession and Contractions

The apostrophe serves two primary grammatical functions:

1. Showing Possession

Apostrophes indicate ownership or possession. The placement of the apostrophe depends on whether the noun is singular, plural, or irregular.

Singular Nouns: For singular nouns, add an apostrophe followed by an "s" ('s).

• Example: The dog's bone was buried in the garden. (One dog owns one bone)
• Example: The cat's toy was under the sofa. (One cat owns one toy)
• Example: The child's drawing was impressive. (One child created one drawing)

Plural Nouns: For plural nouns ending in "s," add only an apostrophe after the "s" ('s).

• Example: The dogs' bones were scattered across the yard. (Multiple dogs own multiple bones)
• Example: The cats' toys were piled high. (Multiple cats own multiple toys)
• Example: The children's drawings were displayed on the wall. (Multiple children created multiple drawings)

Plural Nouns Not Ending in "s": For plural nouns that don't end in "s" (e.g., men, women, children), add an apostrophe followed by an "s".

• Example: The men's club held its annual meeting.
• Example: The women's rights movement made significant strides.
• Example: The children's laughter filled the air.

Singular Nouns Ending in "s": This is a tricky area. The general rule is to add an apostrophe and an "s" ('s), although some style guides suggest only adding an apostrophe in certain cases. For clarity and consistency, it's generally better to add the 's.

• Example: James's car is a classic model. (Adding the 's improves clarity)
• Example: Charles's book was a bestseller. (Again, the 's enhances readability)
• Example: Boss's decision was final. (Adding the 's is recommended for clarity)

Possessive Pronouns: Possessive pronouns (mine, yours, his, hers, its, ours, theirs) never take an apostrophe. They already show possession.

• Correct: This book is mine.
• Incorrect: This book is mine's.
• Correct: The car is hers.
• Incorrect: The car is hers'.

2. Marking Contractions

Apostrophes are also used to show contractions – shortened forms of words where letters have been omitted. The apostrophe indicates where the letters have been removed.

• Example: Can not becomes can't.
• Example: Do not becomes don't.
• Example: It is becomes it's.
• Example: She is becomes she's.
• Example: There is becomes there's.
• Example: Who is becomes who's.
• Example: Let us becomes let's.
• Example: I am becomes I'm.
• Example: They are becomes they're.
• Example: We are becomes we're.
• Example: Would not becomes wouldn't.
• Example: Should not becomes shouldn't.
• Example: Could not becomes couldn't.

Important Distinction: It's vs. Its

This is a common source of confusion.

• It's is a contraction of "it is" or "it has."

• Its is a possessive pronoun showing ownership.

• Example: It's a beautiful day. (It is a beautiful day)

• Example: The cat licked its paw. (The cat licked its own paw)

Common Apostrophe Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Several common mistakes plague apostrophe usage. Let's address them:

1. Incorrect Placement of the Apostrophe in Plurals

Remember: Apostrophes are not used to form the plural of most nouns. The plural is usually formed by simply adding an "s" (or "es" for words ending in ch, sh, x, s, or z).

• Correct: Three cats sat on the fence.
• Incorrect: Three cat's sat on the fence.

2. Confusing Possessives and Plurals

It's easy to mistake the possessive form for a plural. Always ensure you're indicating possession and not merely creating a plural.

• Correct: The students' papers are due tomorrow (Multiple students, multiple papers)
• Incorrect: The student's papers are due tomorrow. (Only one student with multiple papers)

3. Overuse of Apostrophes in Contractions

While contractions are common in informal writing, overuse can make your writing seem sloppy or unprofessional. In formal settings, it is generally preferable to use the full form of the word.

• Formal: It is important to...
• Informal: It's important to...

4. The "Its" vs. "It's" Confusion (Revisited)

The distinction between "its" (possessive) and "it's" (contraction of "it is" or "it has") remains one of the most pervasive errors. Memorizing this distinction is crucial. Always pause and consider the meaning you are trying to convey.

5. Incorrect Use with Names Ending in "s"

As mentioned earlier, the proper way to form the possessive of names ending in "s" is generally to add "'s," though some style guides permit only the apostrophe for names. Consistency is key; choose a style and stick to it.

Practicing Correct Apostrophe Usage

The best way to master apostrophe use is through practice. Here are some exercises to test your understanding:

Exercise 1: Correct the following sentences:

1. The dogs bone was buried.
2. The childrens toys were scattered.
3. Its a beautiful day.
4. Its tail was wagging.
5. The boss's decision was final.
6. The womens club met last night.
7. My friends cars are parked outside.

Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences using contractions:

1. We are going to the party.
2. She is singing a song.
3. He is playing the piano.
4. They are having dinner.
5. I am happy to see you.

Exercise 3: Identify whether the apostrophes in the following sentences are used correctly or incorrectly.

1. The teacher's lesson plan was well-organized.
2. The student's grades were excellent.
3. The cat's fur was soft and fluffy.
4. Its important to proofread your work.
5. Whose book is this?
6. The dog's wagging its tail.
7. The cars' tires were flat.

Answers: (Provided at the end of the article for self-assessment)

Beyond the Basics: Nuances and Exceptions

While the rules outlined above cover the vast majority of apostrophe usage, there are some nuances and exceptions:

• Compound Nouns: For compound nouns, the apostrophe generally goes at the end of the entire phrase. For example: My mother-in-law's house.
• Joint Possession vs. Individual Possession: If multiple people possess something jointly, the apostrophe goes on the last name only. (Example: John and Mary's car). If they possess things individually, each name gets an apostrophe. (Example: John's and Mary's cars.)
• Letters, Numbers, and Symbols: Use apostrophes for possessives of letters, numbers, and symbols. (Example: Mind your p's and q's; The 1920's; The +'s and -'s)

Mastering apostrophe usage requires careful attention and practice. By understanding the core functions of apostrophes and avoiding common mistakes, you can enhance the clarity and grammatical accuracy of your writing.

(Answers to Exercise 3):

1. Correct
2. Correct (if referring to one student with excellent grades)
3. Correct
4. Incorrect ("It's" should be "Its")
5. Correct
6. Correct
7. Incorrect (should be "cars' tires")

This detailed guide provides a strong foundation for understanding apostrophe usage. Consistent practice and a mindful approach will ensure your writing is grammatically sound and clear. Remember to check your work carefully and utilize online resources or style guides when in doubt. With dedication, you'll confidently navigate the world of apostrophes and significantly improve the quality of your writing.