by R. S. Karunaratne

Correct use of the apostrophe

Many students and even some adults do not seem to know how to use the apostrophe (pronounce the last 'e').

The sign (') is used to show that one or more letters have been omitted.

I can't meet you tomorrow. (cannot)

Saleema teaches English, she isn't a doctor. (is not)

"I'm coming", the girl said. (am)

We shan't do the same mistake again. (shall not)

You look as though you've seen an apparition. (have)

He won't find it easy to explain his absence. (will not)

There wasn't enough water to wash our clothes. (was not)

She's flogging herself to death at work. (she is)

Sorry, we don't smoke. (do not)

Sit down or you'll lose your seat. (you will)

Khan gets up at 5 o'clock (of)

You're new here, aren't you? (are/are not)

The apostrophe is also used to show possession.

The teacher could not remember the girl's name.

Godwin's eldest daughter danced at the party.

Her hair looked like a horse's tail.

Shyama picked up the woman's umbrella and gave it to her.

Can you direct me to the principal's office?

Manel's house is far away.

This is a bird's egg.

We usually use - 's for an organisation or place.

The government's decision to give free text books was hailed.

A company's success depends on its honest dealings.

The city's population has doubled during the past decade.

London is England's largest city.

Use - 's after a singular noun

You should not enter the principal's room without permission.

Sunil's house is next to the post office.

My brother's room is in complete disarray.

Nobody has looked after the prisoner's welfare.

The patient's left arm was amputated.

With plural nouns use the apostrophe after s'

The teachers' room remains locked on holidays.

The officers' salaries are paid by cheque.

She is a nurse at the boys' sick room.

The security forces destroyed the terrorists' bunker.

The winners' trophies were kept on a long table.

If a plural noun does not end in -s, use - 's.

Can you direct me to the men's changing room?

The children's parents are waiting at the gate.

This is the people's Bank.

If you are using more than one noun, use -'s in the following manner:

I have been invited to Sena and Kumari's wedding.

The party will be held at Mr. and Mrs. Karunanidhi's house.

You can use -'s with time expressions

Did you read today's newspaper?

I am unable to attend tomorrow's meeting.

Next week's programme has been cancelled.