A2 — Elementary+50 XP available

Interactive Grammar: Apostrophes

Use apostrophes correctly for contractions (don't, it's) and possessives (Tom's, the team's) in English writing.

Grammar Explanation · Authentic Examples · Practice Exercises

Lesson progressNot started

Duration

~36 min

Exercises

Level

Elementary

Overview

Use apostrophes correctly for contractions (don't, it's) and possessives (Tom's, the team's) in English writing.

Two Uses

ContractionReplacing omitted letters: don't, it's, I've, they're
PossessiveShowing ownership: Tom's car, the team's result
Plural pos.Plural nouns ending -s: the students' books
IrregularIrregular plural: children's, women's, men's

Critical Distinctions

it's = it is / it has · its = possessive (no apostrophe)
they're = they are · their = possessive · there = place
you're = you are · your = possessive
NEVER use apostrophe for plural: ❌ apple's → ✅ apples

Common Mistakes

❌ The dog wagged it's tail → ✅ its tail (possessive)
❌ The student's are ready → ✅ The students are ready (plural, no possession)
❌ Chris' car (BrE accepts this) → ✅ Chris's car (most style guides)

When to use

Contractions

I can't believe she didn't call.

Singular pos.

This is my sister's flat.

Plural pos.

The students' projects were excellent.

its vs it's

The cat licked its paw. / It's raining.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this lesson on punctuation cover?

Use apostrophes correctly for contractions (don't, it's) and possessives (Tom's, the team's) in English writing.

Which CEFR level is this lesson designed for?

This lesson is designed for Elementary (A2) learners and forms part of the Punctuation section on Grammartier.

What is the best approach for studying this grammar topic?

Start with the definition, then study the examples carefully to understand how the pattern works in context. Practise identifying the structure in authentic sentences before producing your own — this recognition-first approach builds a strong foundation for accurate, confident use.