Possessive Nouns

When we want to show that something belongs to someone or something, we use a possessive noun. In English, this usually means adding an apostrophe (‘) — sometimes with an “s.”

Singular possessive nouns

If one person or thing owns something, add ’s.

• This is Lina’s backpack. 🎒
• The dog’s bowl is empty.
• We visited France’s capital last summer.

Plural possessive nouns

If something belongs to more than one person or thing, and the noun already ends in “s,” just add an apostrophe after the “s.”

• The teachers’ lounge is on the second floor.
• All the cars’ windows were open.

If the plural doesn’t end in “s,” like “children” or “men,” use ’s:

• The children’s toys are everywhere. 🧸
• The men’s jackets are hanging by the door.

What about names that end in “s”?

This depends on style. Some people write:

• That’s Lucas’ phone. (just the apostrophe)

Others prefer:

• That’s Lucas’s phone. (apostrophe + s)

✅ Both are correct. Just choose one style and be consistent!