How to Use Apostrophes Properly: The Definitive Guide | English Grammar & Punctuation Lesson

Summary

In this grammar lesson, Lucy tackles the often-confusing use of apostrophes, covering their role in indicating possession and forming contractions. She explains the rules for singular and plural nouns, emphasizing the importance of consistency in usage. Lucy also clarifies common contractions involving verbs and pronouns, highlighting common pitfalls, such as confusing 'who's' with 'whose.' The video is designed for anyone looking to improve their English writing skills, whether for exams, emails, or everyday communication. With practical examples and insights, Lucy aims to demystify apostrophes and enhance grammatical understanding for all learners.

Takeaways

• 😀 Apostrophes are crucial in English grammar, and understanding their use can enhance both writing and speaking skills.
• 📚 The possessive case typically involves adding 's to singular nouns (e.g., Lucy's car).
• 🤔 For singular nouns ending in s, adding 's is commonly accepted, though some prefer just the apostrophe.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 For plural nouns ending in s, only an apostrophe is added (e.g., friends' party).
• 👶 Irregular plural nouns (like children and women) require 's for possession (e.g., children's toys).
• 🐾 When ownership is shared, only the last owner's name gets the possessive form (e.g., Lucy and Ali's cat).
• ✍️ Verb contractions indicate missing letters and make speech and writing more concise (e.g., do not → don't).
• 💬 Context is important for understanding contractions involving pronouns and verbs (e.g., it's can mean it is or it has).
• 📅 Apostrophes can be used to abbreviate years (e.g., the summer of '69).
• 🎤 Apostrophes clarify dialogue pronunciation, indicating how words should sound when spoken (e.g., come on).

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is the proper use of apostrophes in English, covering their application in the possessive case and contractions.

Why do many people struggle with apostrophes?

Many people struggle with apostrophes due to their complex rules and the common misuse observed in both spoken and written English.

How do you form the possessive case with singular nouns?

To form the possessive case with singular nouns, you typically add an apostrophe followed by 's' (e.g., 'Lucy's car').

What should you do with singular nouns that end in 's'?

For singular nouns that end in 's', you generally add apostrophe + 's' (e.g., 'Jess's dog'), although some may prefer just adding an apostrophe.

How do you indicate possession with regular plural nouns?

For regular plural nouns that end in 's', you indicate possession by adding just an apostrophe at the end (e.g., 'my friends' party').

What is the rule for plural nouns that do not end in 's'?

For plural nouns that do not end in 's', you add apostrophe + 's' (e.g., 'children's clothing').

How do you express possession when two people jointly own an item?

When two people jointly own an item, use the last person's name in the possessive form (e.g., 'Lucy and Ali's cat').

What are the five common types of verb contractions mentioned?

The five common types of verb contractions are: 1) Verb + Not (e.g., 'don't'), 2) Pronoun + Will (e.g., 'I'll'), 3) Pronoun + To Be (e.g., 'I'm'), 4) Pronoun + To Have (e.g., 'she's'), and 5) Pronoun + Would (e.g., 'I'd').

What is an important distinction between 'who's' and 'whose'?

'Who's' is a contraction for 'who is' or 'who has', while 'whose' indicates possession.

Can you give an example of a less common contraction?

An example of a less common contraction is dropping numbers when referring to years, such as saying 'the summer of '69' instead of 'the summer of 1969'.