Apostrophes in Plurals (the Grocers' Apostrophe)
Do not be tempted to use an apostrophe just because a word ends in s. For example:
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Don't Add Your Own Apostrophe to a Plural WordIn English, the plural form of a word is most commonly shown by adding an s to the end (e.g., cats, pictures). You must not add your own apostrophe!In other words, do not add 's to the end. Just add s. The plural forms of words ending in vowels (e.g., video, patio) are extremely prone to this error. Forming a plural by adding 's is a common mistake, and it is considered a grammatical howler. Examples:
 ))(Actually, you could write "Dwarves" too — both are correct plurals of dwarf.)  (camera's  cameras )(motorway sign)  (Minister's are very... Ministers are very... )(Letter from a former British Minister for Education)
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))When to Use ApostrophesThe rules on using apostrophes can be summarized:aren't isn't can't Read more about using apostrophes replacing letters. Sarah's jumper The dog's toy The dogs' kennel Read more about using apostrophes for possession. 3 months' wages A day's leave 2 days' notice Read more about using apostrophes in time expressions. BUY THREE CD'S. Mind your p's and q's. Your 5's look like 6's. Read more about using apostrophes for awkward plurals. |
THE GROCERS' APOSTROPHE
In English, the overwhelming majority of words show their plurals by adding s. Do not add your own apostrophe. As fruit and vegetable stalls often display this error, it has come to be known as the grocers' apostrophe.
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See also:
Using apostrophes
Apostrophes in time (temporal) expressions
Apostrophes replace letters
Apostrophes to show the plural of abbreviations
Apostrophes show possession