ENG1105-UP

Apostrophes 1
Apostrophes have three uses: to mark the possessive case of nouns, to indicate a contraction, and
to show the plurals of letters, abbreviations, and numbers. Correct the following sentences by
adding or removing apostrophes. Some sentences may have more than one error, and others may
be correct.
1. The kitten’s mouth opened wide as she yawned, trying hard to stay awake.

2. John has never yet learned to cross his t’s.

3. The owners of the old house should do something about the roof’s leaking.

4. After a month’s illness, Professor Johnson returned to his classes.

5. The men’s wives teased the men about their poker playing.

6. Hers isn’t the only Cadillac in town.

7. My three days’ visit to the beach left me sunburned and exhausted.

8. Advertisements of women’s apparel fill much of the magazine.

9. The sale offered ladies’ dresses at greatly reduced prices.

10. The responsibility is yours, not mine. CORRECT

11. Emily Post’s book on etiquette has been brought up to date by her daughter-in-law,
who’s also an authority on the subject.

12. The Smiths offered to cut our lawn as well as theirs. CORRECT

13. That’s politics, I’m told.

14. He hired two CPAs.

15. Jesus’ miracles angered the Jews.

16. Its purpose is unknown. CORRECT

17. It’s a beautiful day.

18. Children’s clothes are located between boys’ shoes and ladies’ dresses.

Undergraduate Pathways 1 ENG1105 Composition