The genitive case
The genitive case, or possessive case, is when the apostrophe s ('s) is used to show possession (my grandmother’s ring, my sister’s car). The genitive case is used mainly with people and animals; it is rarely used with non-living things. However, sometimes it is used with organizations or companies.
How to use the genitive case
| Singular noun | Add ’s (apostrophe S) | The museum’s new exhibit was fascinating. |
|
Singular noun
(ending in S) |
Add ’s (apostrophe S) after names or common nouns. |
James’s new job pays quite well.
The bus’s wheels were flat. Jesus’s birthday is Christmas. |
| Plural noun | Add only the apostrophe | My sisters’ art project is finally finished. |
|
Plural noun
(not ending in S) |
Add ’s (apostrophe S) | My children’s teacher is very kind. |
| No noun | If the meaning is clear, sometimes the possessive is used without a repeated noun. The possessive will usually be on a name. |
My bike is older than Sarah’s.
Taylor’s house is bigger than Mike’s. |