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‘Possessives’ Category Archives

“Building the worlds best communications company …”

Wednesday, November 21st, 2007

I saw this in an official communication from the number-two executive at the world’s largest telecommunications company.

Problem:
An apostrophe is missing.

Explanation:
The singular noun “world” requires a possessive apostrophe followed by an “s” to indicate the possession of the “best communications company” by the world. Another way to write this phrase is “Building the best communications company in the world …”.

Solution:
“Building the world’s best communications company …”

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“Kid’s Club” vs. “Kids’ Club” vs. “Kids Club”

Saturday, October 27th, 2007

I saw all three of these at a fitness center.

Problem:
Inconsistent use of a possessive apostrophe makes it meaningless.

Explanation:
“Kid’s Club” says that there is one kid and that he or she has a club. “Kids’ Club” says that there are many kids and that they have a club. “Kids Club” says that there is a club for kids.

Solution:
Know why you’re using a possessive apostrophe.

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