Learn English Grammar: Lesson 16 – Possessive Forms of Nouns

Learn English Grammar: Lesson 16 – Possessive Forms of Nouns

There are two ways to show the possessive of nouns in English. One way is with an apostrophe and the letter s (‘s). The other way is with the preposition of. Consider the differences between these two possessive forms.

For people:

1. A singular noun that does not end in -s: add ‘s

• the boy has a book = the boy’s book
• the boy has books = the boy’s books

2. A plural noun that ends in -s: add ‘ (apostrophe)

• the boys have one book = the boys’ book
• the boys have many books = the boys’ books

3. An irregular plural noun: add ‘s

• the children have a book = the children’s book
• people have opinions = people’s opinions

4. A name that ends in -s: add ‘s

• Chris has a laptop = Chris’s laptop
• Charles has two bikes = Charles’s bikes

For things:

5. Use of instead of ‘s

• a table has a top = the top of the table
• a book has a title = the title of the book

6. Exceptions: We use ‘s for time words and nature words

• Today’s newspaper is on the table.
• The sun’s rays provide us with warmth and vitamin D.

Learn English Grammar: Lesson 17 (Part 1) – Subject-Verb Agreement