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At the risk of rocking your grammar foundation, the 's above is correct -- now. Well, really as of a few years ago. To make a singular noun ending in a s possessive, current grammar usage states you add not only the apostrophe, but also another s. So, as indicated on the first page of Strunk and White's most recent Elements of Style, Charles's friend replaces Charles' friend. Even the Brits agree. Just check out the English Club website based in Cambridge, England.
Of course, there are still exceptions. You add only an apostrophe if:
- The next word begins with s as in secretary (Charles' secretary).
- The noun is religious (Moses' laws).
- The noun is historical (Archimedes' formula).
Is this common knowledge? You'll notice it in publications such as The New York Times and Atlanta Magazine, and new style guides. But, and here's the dilemma, will your client know you are punctuating correctly?
This upsetting update is brought to you by Executive Speak/Write, oral and written communications trainers who help you Make your point. Get results. Contact us to discuss how our writing, grammar and executive presence skills improvement programs can help differentiate you.
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