Editor's Corner

Over the last month or so, I’ve received a lot of inquiries about the possessive form of certain nouns or names. I thought maybe now would be a good time for a review, since many people are preparing to send out party invitations for Thanksgiving and other holidays.

Today we start with the most basic rule, from the Chicago Manual of Style:

The possessive of most singular nouns is formed by adding an apostrophe and an s. The possessive of plural nouns (except for a few irregular plurals, like children, that do not end in s) is formed by adding an apostrophe only.

· the horse’s mouth

· a bass’s stripes

· puppies’ paws

· children’s literature

· a herd of sheep’s mysterious disappearance

Kara Church

Technical Editor, Advisory

619-542-6773 | Ext: 766773

Symitar Documentation Services

NOTICE: This electronic mail message and any files transmitted with it are intended
exclusively for the individual or entity to which it is addressed. The message,
together with any attachment, may contain confidential and/or privileged information.
Any unauthorized review, use, printing, saving, copying, disclosure or distribution
is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please
immediately advise the sender by reply email and delete all copies.