We generally form the possessive of singular nouns by adding an apostrophe and an “s”. And we put the apostrophe after the plural “s”.
Examples: Jean’s report and the members’ (several members) or member’s (only one or for each one) report. I unravel it to test if it is singular or plural: the report of the member or members?
But what happens when a noun ends in “s” or “z”?
Do we say:
- The boss’ or the boss’s office?
- Mr. Jones’ or Mr. Jones’s papers?
- Ms. Gonzalez’ or Ms. Gonzalez’s application?
As style guides have conflicting policies on this, the most sensible solution is to decide on one approach and be consistent.
When referring to the United Nations as an organization (the noun is singular!), the possessive has no apostrophe:
- United Nations staff
United Nations’ staff - United Nations policy
United Nations’ policy
Test yourself. Put in any missing apostrophes where appropriate. Indicate if singular or plural.
- Can you invite the neighbours daughter to the party?
- Genevas restaurants close early.
- Jesss car broke down yesterday.
Answer key
- Can you invite the neighbour’s (singular) or neighbours’ (plural, presumably a couple) daughter to the party?
- Geneva’s restaurants close early.
- Jess’s (or Jess’) car broke down yesterday.
For some further practice, see here.
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Author: Carol Waites
Presentation/editing by Christina O’Shaughnessy
https://worldwidewriting.org/
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Carol Waites (PhD)
Email: carolswritingtips@gmail.com
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Carol’s memoir of her times at the United Nations, Behind the Flags, is available on Amazon and lulu.com
ISBN 9783952632703 Behind the Flags Amazon
9783952632710 Behind the Flags Black and White Version Amazon (Australia and Japan)
9783952632727 Behind the Flags lulu.com