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.
- Is it Chris's or Chris '?
- What is the S apostrophe rule?
- How do you do possessive with a name ending in s?
- How do you write possessive of two names?
Is it Chris's or Chris '?
In school, it is common to be taught to write “Chris'” when talking about something that belongs to Chris. When we are talking, we say Chris's when referring to something that belongs to Chris. While both are technically correct, the main difference is in the required style guide.
What is the S apostrophe rule?
Apostrophe Rules Summary
If the word already has an "s," it only needs an apostrophe. If the word does not already have an "s," it needs the apostrophe followed by "s." However, when to use apostrophe "s" or an apostrophe after "s," can vary by preference for words that end in "s."
How do you do possessive with a name ending in s?
For names ending in s, form the possessive either by simply adding an apostrophe (James' books) or by adding an apostrophe as well as another s (Charles's phone). The possessive of a plural name is always formed by adding an apostrophe after the final s (the Smiths' dog, the Harrises' family home).
How do you write possessive of two names?
If two people possess the same item, put the apostrophe + s after the second name only. Example: Cesar and Maribel's home is constructed of redwood. However, if one of the joint owners is written as a pronoun, use the possessive form for both.