Apostrophes can be used for possession.
If the noun is singular, the apostrophe is before the letter "s":
- David's car is blue.
- Rachel's brother is older than her.
- The school's facilities are brand new.
If the noun is plural, the apostrophe goes after the letter "s":
- The girls' room is upstairs. (There are 2 or more girls)
- My friends' flat is in the city centre. (2 of more of my friends live in the flat)
- My parents' garden is beautiful. (2 parents)
If the plural of the noun doesn't end in "s", the apostrophe goes before it:
- The children's toys are on the floor.
- The men's toilets are downstairs.
- Women's (ladies') clothes are sold here.
We also use apostrophes in contractions to show a missing letter:
- I don't like it.
- She's interested in history.
- He's been to London twice.
Remember that she's/he's can mean she/he has or she/he is, depending on the rest of the sentence. Likewise, the 'd contraction can be would or had.
Be careful with it's and its!
It's = it is. For example, it's a good idea to read the news in English to improve your vocabulary.
Its = possessive form of "it". For example, the company sources its products locally.
Any questions? Post them in the comments section below!