7.6: Trouble Spots in Language- Using Apostrophes
- Page ID
- 104443
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What Is an Apostrophe?
An apostrophe is the punctuation mark in these sentences:
- This is Alice’s phone.
- I didn’t see you.
- It’s raining.
The apostrophe is one of the most misused punctuation marks in written English.
When Do I Need an Apostrophe?
Use an apostrophe … |
Do not use an apostrophe … |
After a person, to show belonging:
With a short form:
|
With a plural:
With a he/she/it verb:
|
It’s or Its?
Use It’s … |
Use Its … |
For a short form (= it is):
|
To show belonging:
|
You Try It!
Look at the following advertisements for goods for sale. Circle and correct the mistakes in the use of apostrophes. Two sentences are correct.
- Barbecue, $50. Its old, but it still works.
- Two kitchen chair’s. Oak with leather-look seats. $40 for the pair.
- Acoustic guitar. Comes with it’s own case. $45 obo.
- Food processor. Work’s well but I never use it. $30.
- Lawnmower, $25. Must have transportation as I cant deliver.
- Comic books. Batman, Superman, etc. All in good condition. Enquire for prices.
- Im selling my daughters old bicycle. $20 or best offer.
- Two ticket’s to weekend music festival. Paid $100, asking $75.
- Winter tires. Good condition. $250.
- Treadmill, $200. Its in excellent condition—never been used.