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By many an English speaker, the application of the apostrophe (‘) is often abused and misused. In the case of the possessive apostrophe (the type of apostrophe which shows ownership or belonging), it seems impossible to decipher where and when “s” should or shouldn’t be added. But fear not! You can avoid this grammar catastrophe by following four simple rules:
1. Add an apostrophe + “s” to any singular nouns that do not end in “s”:
2. Add apostrophe + “s” to a singular noun, even if it ends in “s” (this use may vary depending on whether or not the noun in question is a proper noun):
- Thomas’s presentation (Thomas’ presentation is also acceptable—however, if the proper noun is plural, one would only use an apostrophe after the noun, i.e. The Smiths’ house)
- The boss's office
3. Add apostrophe + “s” to any plural nouns that do not end in “s”:
4. Just add an apostrophe to any plural noun that ends in “s”:
- The co-workers' lunch break
Hopefully this has shed some light on the use of possessive apostrophes. I will now leave you with a funny cartoon:
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