What Is a Possessive Noun?
A possessive noun shows ownership or a relationship of belonging between one thing and another.
Example: Sarah’s book (the book belongs to Sarah)
Basic Rules for Forming Possessive Nouns
- Singular nouns: Add
's
cat → cat’s tail
- Plural nouns ending in s: Add only an apostrophe (
')
dogs → dogs’ leashes
- Plural nouns NOT ending in s: Add
's
children → children’s toys
- Joint possession: Only the last noun gets
's
Tom and Jerry’s apartment
- Individual possession: Each noun gets
's
Tom’s and Jerry’s cars
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t confuse its (possessive) with it’s (contraction of “it is”)
- Avoid adding apostrophes to pluralize regular nouns (e.g., “apple’s” for multiple apples is wrong)
- Be consistent with proper names: James’s car vs. James’ car — both are acceptable, but pick one style
Quick Practice Quiz
Choose the correct possessive form:
The ___ toys are on the floor.