Form the possessive singular of nouns by adding 's. Follow…
““Form the possessive singular of nouns by adding 's. Follow this rule whatever the final consonant. Thus write: Charles's friend, Burns's poems, the witch's malice. ... The pronomial possessives hers, its, theirs, yours, and ours have no apostrophe. Indefinite pronouns, however, use the apostrophe to show possession: one's rights, somebody else's umbrella. A common error is to write it's for its, or vice versa. The first is a contraction, meaning "it is". The second is a possessive. It's a wise dog that scratches its own fleas.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Rules for possessive forms and apostrophe usage are explained, highlighting common errors and clarifying grammar.
In simple terms: Grammar rules for apostrophes and possessives.
Key Takeaway
Apply correct possessive punctuation.
Themes
grammar
punctuation
possessives
language
education
Mood
educational
precise
Type
instruction
explanation
When to use this quote
- writing
- editing
- teaching
Key Concepts
linguistics
style guide
Questions to Reflect On
- What common apostrophe mistake do you make?
- How can you improve your editing process?