The Correct Use of Apostrophes in English Writing

How do you use apostrophes in English writing?

Choose the response below that shows the appropriate use of apostrophes:

a. his bosses's desks

b. his bosses desks

c. his bosses' desks

Answer:

The correct option is c. his bosses' desks.

Apostrophes are essential in English writing to show possession. The appropriate use of apostrophes is crucial in conveying the correct meaning in sentences. In this case, when showing that multiple bosses own desks, the correct format is "his bosses' desks." By placing the apostrophe after the "s" in "bosses," we indicate that the desks belong to multiple bosses.

What are the rules for using apostrophes for possessives?

There are several rules for using apostrophes in possessives in English writing:

1. Use an apostrophe + "s" ('s) to show that one person/thing owns or is a member of something.

2. Use an apostrophe after the "s" (s') at the end of a plural noun to show possession.

3. If a plural noun doesn't end in "s," add an apostrophe + "s" to create the possessive form.

The general rule is that the possessive of a singular noun is formed by adding an apostrophe and "s," whether the singular noun ends in "s" or not. The possessive of a plural noun is formed by adding only an apostrophe when the noun ends in "s," and by adding both an apostrophe and "s" when it ends in a letter other than "s."