Apostrophes

What Are Apostrophes? (with Examples)

An apostrophe (') is a punctuation mark used:

(1) To replace a missing letter or letters.

(2) To show the possessive form of a noun.

(3) In time expressions.

(4) To show an awkward plural.

(1) Use an apostrophe to replace missing letters.

can't

cannot

isn't

is not

don't

do not

The shortened words are known as contractions. (Do not make up your own contractions.)

(2) Use an apostrophe to create the possessive form of a noun.

In these examples, the possessive noun is highlighted.

The fire fighters' code
The women's hat
The dog's dinner
The dogs' dinners

dogs

The dogs' dinner

dogs

The graphic below shows where to place the apostrophe for your possessive noun. apostrophe placement rules

That's it! It works for every type of noun. (The rules for apostrophe placement in a possessive noun are far simpler than some people suggest.)

(3) Use an apostrophe in a time expression.

One minute's notice
Two minutes' silence
One day's pay
Five weeks' holiday

This is similar to Point 2 above. These are just possessive nouns that involve times.

Do not use an apostrophe every time you use a time word (e.g., minute, days, week, weeks, month, months).

In five weeks', I will rule the world!

Only use an apostrophe where the word "of" might have been used instead of a possessive construction:

One minute of notice
Two minutes of silence
One day of pay
Five weeks of holiday

The apostrophe placement rules are the same as for possessive nouns. If the word doesn't end s (e.g., minute, day), add 's. If it does end s (e.g., minutes, days), add just '.

(4) Use an apostrophe to shown an awkward plural.

It is not a popular convention, but all the leading grammar references condone using an apostrophe to show an awkward plural.

You use too many and's in your writing.
There are two i's in Hawaii.
There were three SOS's sent.
BUY TWO CD'S FOR THE PRICE OF ONE

Of course, there are other ways of showing these plurals, but this method is deemed so efficient, it has become acceptable.

Do not use an apostrophe to show a normal plural. That is definitely unacceptable!

You need to two ripe banana's to make this cake.

I am seeing lots of new bird's in my garden these days.

A Quick Test

Help Us To Improve English Grammar Lessons

Do you disagree with something on this page?
Did you spot a typo?

Please tell us using this form.