The Elements of Style: Marge’s apostrophe

When it comes to possessives — I usually have to think about where to put the apostrophe.

Here’s the rule:

Form the possessive singular of nouns by adding     ‘s

Marge’s cool bicycle is clean and spiffy.

The cat’s meow was annoying.

Of course there are exceptions –
When the possessives of ancient proper names ends in  -es and -is,

  • Jesus’
  • for conscience’ sake
  • for righteousness’ sake

But such forms as Moses’ Laws, Isis’ temple are commonly replaced by

  • the laws of Moses
  • the temple of Isis

This information was found in The Elements of Style – (Strunk & White)

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