Common Errors Questions
The common errors in apostrophe usage include:
1. Using apostrophes to make plurals: Apostrophes should not be used to indicate plural forms of words. For example, "apple's" is incorrect, while "apples" is the correct plural form.
2. Incorrectly placing apostrophes in possessive nouns: Apostrophes should be used to indicate possession, but they should be placed correctly. For singular nouns, the apostrophe is placed before the "s" (e.g., "the dog's bone"). For plural nouns ending in "s," the apostrophe is placed after the "s" (e.g., "the dogs' bones").
3. Using apostrophes in possessive pronouns: Possessive pronouns, such as "yours," "theirs," and "its," do not require apostrophes. For example, it is incorrect to write "your's" or "it's" when indicating possession.
4. Confusing "it's" and "its": "It's" is a contraction of "it is" or "it has," while "its" is the possessive form of "it." Many people mistakenly use "it's" when they mean "its."
5. Using apostrophes in plural acronyms or abbreviations: Apostrophes should not be used to form plurals of acronyms or abbreviations. For example, "CD's" is incorrect, while "CDs" is the correct plural form.
6. Using apostrophes in non-possessive phrases: Apostrophes should not be used in phrases that are not indicating possession. For example, "I went to the store to buy apple's" is incorrect, while "I went to the store to buy apples" is correct.
It is important to use apostrophes correctly to ensure clear and accurate communication in writing.