
An apostrophe is an important punctuation mark which is often used incorrectly or forgotten. The best way to get apostrophes right is to understand when and why they are used.
Apostrophes have the following uses:
Example
Many people don’t recognise the importance of good public transport systems. (do not)
You won’t get a job if you’re not well-qualified. (will not) (you are)
Example
People’s salaries have fallen in recent years.
The government’s role in providing free accommodation for homeless people has been debated a lot in the media recently.
Example
Workers’ rights must be protected by legislation.
Example
I ate 6 tomatoe’s.I ate 6 tomatoes.
Example
He gave the dog it’s dinner.
He gave the dog its dinner.
Apostrophe Practice
Each of the sentences below has an apostrophe error. The apostrophe may be missing, used incorrectly or is unnecessary. Correct each mistake.
- The medias’ attitude to individuals’ privacy has come under close scrutiny in recent years.
- Charitie’s role in helping homeless people cannot be underestimated.
- People are spending more and more money on luxury products such as TV’s and game consoles.
- Peoples’ opinions of politics have been affected in recent years due to some extremely negative media coverage.
- Government grants’ should be made available for young people to set up businesses.
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