In the vast landscape of the English language, few distinctions spark as much confusion as the difference between “theirs” and “their’s.” Many learners find themselves puzzled when trying to navigate these terms, often wondering if the apostrophe in “their’s” is a necessary addition or simply a common misconception. Understanding this difference is crucial, not only for enhancing one’s writing clarity but also for fostering effective communication. In this article, we will unravel the specifics of these two terms, clarifying their meanings and usage so you can confidently express possession without hesitation.
Theirs vs Their’s: “Theirs” is a possessive pronoun used to indicate ownership, referring to something that belongs to them, while “Their’s” is a common misspelling and is not recognized in standard English. For example, “Theirs is the red car.” In contrast, “Their” is the possessive adjective that precedes a noun, as in “Their car is red.” In both American and British English, “theirs” is the correct form, and using “their’s” should be avoided to ensure clarity and correctness in writing.
What Do ‘Theirs vs Their’s’ Mean?
The terms “theirs” and “their’s” often confuse English learners, but understanding their meanings is essential for clear communication. “Theirs” is a possessive pronoun used to indicate ownership, referring to something belonging to a group of people or individuals previously mentioned. For example, in the sentence, “The books on the table are theirs,” the word “theirs” shows that the books belong to the people being discussed.
On the other hand, “their’s” is a common misspelling of “theirs.” The correct form is “theirs,” without the apostrophe. It’s important to remember that possessive pronouns like “theirs” do not require an apostrophe, as they already indicate possession. To illustrate usage further, consider the sentence: “The children left their toys outside; they are theirs now.” Here, “theirs” confirms the toys’ ownership belongs to the children mentioned.
‘Theirs vs Their’s’: The Differences
Understanding the differences between “theirs” and “their’s” is crucial for effective writing. The primary distinction lies in the fact that “theirs” is the correct and accepted form, while “their’s” is simply incorrect. This error can lead to confusion, particularly among learners of English.
In American English, the use of “theirs” is consistent and widely accepted, while “their’s” may sometimes appear in informal contexts, often as a typographical error. Conversely, in British English, “theirs” remains the standard form, and the incorrect usage of “their’s” is generally discouraged.
For example, consider the sentence: “The students handed in their assignments; the feedback will be given to theirs later.” In this context, “theirs” correctly reflects ownership and is the only appropriate form. By being aware of this difference, you can enhance your writing clarity and avoid common pitfalls associated with possessive pronouns.
Regional Preferences: Theirs vs Their’s
English is a diverse language that varies significantly across different regions, with unique expressions and grammatical rules emerging in each locale. While the terms Theirs and Their’s may appear straightforward, regional differences affect their usage and acceptance. Understanding the correct form is essential, as it can influence clarity and appropriateness depending on your audience and context.
As we delve into the regional differences, we’ll examine how Theirs and Their’s are viewed in both American and British English, highlighting the preferences and examples that define each variant.
American English
In American English, the correct usage is Theirs. For example: “The bikes over there are Theirs.”
In the United States, this version is more commonly used because it adheres to the grammatical rules of possessive pronouns without the need for an apostrophe, making it clearer for readers and speakers alike.
British English
In British English, the preferred form is also Theirs. For instance: “Those shoes belong to Sarah; they are Theirs.”
In British English, this form is preferred as it aligns with the conventional possessive pronoun structure, avoiding confusion that may arise from the incorrect use of an apostrophe.
Examples in Context: Theirs vs Their’s
Understanding the correct usage of “theirs” and “their’s” can be challenging for many English learners. Real-life examples are crucial as they provide practical insights into how each term is used in different contexts. By examining these examples, learners will gain the confidence needed to distinguish between “theirs” and “their’s” in both writing and conversations.
Theirs
1. The children took their toys home, but the larger ones are theirs.
2. I asked to borrow a book, but it was already checked out; it was theirs.
3. The house on the corner is theirs, and they have lived there for over a decade.
4. We found the lost cat, and it turns out it is theirs.
5. They always bring their own snacks to the party, but the drinks are theirs.
6. The awards were given to the top students, and the trophy is theirs.
7. I was confused about the ownership of the car; I learned that it is theirs.
8. The responsibility for the project lies with them, as the idea was theirs.
Their’s
1. Their’s is a common mistake; the correct form is “theirs.”
2. Many learners often confuse “their’s” with “theirs” in written assignments.
3. In spoken English, some might mistakenly say “their’s” instead of “theirs.”
4. It’s essential to note that “their’s” should not be used in formal writing.
5. If you see “their’s” in a text, it is likely an error.
6. The word “their’s” does not exist in standard English; you should use “theirs.”
7. Teachers often correct students when they use “their’s” instead of “theirs.”
8. Remember, “their’s” is incorrect; always opt for “theirs” in your sentences.
Synonyms & Antonyms of Theirs vs Their’s
Understanding synonyms and antonyms is essential for expanding your vocabulary and enhancing your language skills. Synonyms add variety to both speech and writing, allowing you to express yourself more creatively. On the other hand, antonyms provide clarity by highlighting the opposite meanings of words, which can help you grasp the nuances of language. Knowing different word choices not only enriches your communication but also helps you sound more fluent and natural in English.
| Type | Word | Synonyms | Antonyms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Possessive Pronoun | Theirs | Belonging to them, Their own | Ours, Yours, Mine |
| Possessive Pronoun | Their’s | Not applicable | Not applicable |
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Understanding common mistakes in English is crucial for mastering the nuances of language, especially when it comes to words like “theirs” and “their’s.” Even advanced learners can stumble over these terms, but correcting these errors can significantly enhance your fluency and accuracy in English. Below are some frequent mistakes made with “theirs” and “their’s,” along with recommendations on how to avoid them.
- Incorrect Usage: “Their’s”
Correction: The correct form is “theirs,” which is a possessive pronoun used to indicate ownership. “Their’s” is not a valid word in English.
Recommendation: Remember that “theirs” stands alone and does not require an apostrophe. - Confusion with “Their”
Correction: “Their” is the possessive adjective, while “theirs” is the possessive pronoun.
Recommendation: Use “their” when describing something belonging to a group (e.g., “their house”) and “theirs” to replace a noun (e.g., “That house is theirs”). - Regional Differences
Correction: Some learners may hear “their’s” due to regional accents or dialects, but it remains incorrect in standard English.
Recommendation: Pay attention to formal writing and standard grammar rules to avoid adopting incorrect forms. - Misplacing “Theirs” in Sentences
Correction: “Theirs” should be positioned correctly to maintain clarity in sentences.
Recommendation: Ensure that “theirs” is used at the end of a sentence or clause to avoid confusion (e.g., “The decision is theirs, not ours”).
Tips for Correct Usage
Mastering the correct usage of “theirs” vs “their’s” is crucial for effective communication in writing. Using these terms correctly not only enhances clarity but also reflects professionalism and grammatical accuracy. Below are practical tips to help you navigate this common confusion.
- Understand the Definition: “Theirs” is a possessive pronoun indicating ownership, while “their’s” is a common misspelling.
- Remember the Rule: “Theirs” does not need an apostrophe, as it is already in its possessive form.
- Practice Common Contexts: Use “theirs” when indicating something belongs to a group or individuals. Familiarize yourself with phrases that often accompany it.
- Avoid Apostrophes: If you are ever unsure, remember that possessive pronouns (his, hers, ours, theirs) never take an apostrophe.
- Use Grammar Tools: Utilize grammar-checking tools and resources to ensure correct usage and identify potential errors in your writing.
- Consult Style Guides: Different style guides may have specific rules regarding possessive pronouns; refer to them for guidance.
- Stay Updated: Language evolves, so keep yourself informed about common usage trends and changes in the English language.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ‘theirs’ and ‘their’s’?
‘Theirs’ is a possessive pronoun used to indicate ownership, while ‘their’s’ is a common misspelling and is not grammatically correct.
How do you use ‘theirs’ in a sentence?
You can use ‘theirs’ to show possession, as in: “The book is theirs, not mine.”
Is ‘their’s’ a correct word?
No, ‘their’s’ is incorrect; the correct form is ‘theirs’ without an apostrophe.
When should I use ‘theirs’?
Use ‘theirs’ when referring to something owned by a group of people, such as in “The toys are theirs.”
Can ‘theirs’ be used in the singular form?
‘Theirs’ is typically used for plural ownership, but it can refer to a singular entity when considering a group, e.g., “The dog is theirs.”
What are common mistakes with ‘theirs’?
Common mistakes include using ‘their’s’ or confusing ‘theirs’ with ‘theirs’ in contractions or possessive forms.
How do I remember the difference between ‘theirs’ and ‘their’s’?
Remember that ‘theirs’ is the correct form, and as a possessive pronoun, it does not require an apostrophe.
Are there any similar words to ‘theirs’?
Yes, similar possessive pronouns include ‘his,’ ‘hers,’ and ‘its,’ which also indicate ownership without apostrophes.