Identify and correct errors with compound and joint possession

Key Notes :

1. Understanding Compound Possession:

  • Definition: Compound possession occurs when two or more nouns share ownership of an item or items.
  • Types:
    • Joint Possession: When two or more people own something together.
    • Separate Possession: When each person owns something independently.

2. Joint Possession:

  • Rule: Use an apostrophe and an “s” with the last noun only.
  • Example: John and Mary’s house (This means they both share the same house).
  • Common Errors: Using an apostrophe with both nouns, e.g., John’s and Mary’s house (This indicates two separate houses).

3. Separate Possession:

  • Rule: Use an apostrophe and an “s” with each noun.
  • Example: John’s and Mary’s cars (This means John has his own car, and Mary has her own car).
  • Common Errors: Omitting the apostrophe for both nouns, e.g., John and Mary’s cars (This could suggest joint ownership).

4. Identifying Errors:

  • Check for Shared Ownership: Determine if the nouns are sharing one item or have separate items.
  • Look for Apostrophe Placement: Incorrect placement or omission of apostrophes indicates errors.
  • Example:
    • Incorrect: Tom’s and Jerry’s ice cream shop (This suggests they own separate shops).
    • Correct: Tom and Jerry’s ice cream shop (They own the same shop).

5. Correcting Errors:

  • Step 1: Identify if the possession is joint or separate.
  • Step 2: Place the apostrophe correctly:
    • For joint possession, use it after the last noun.
    • For separate possession, use it after each noun.
  • Step 3: Check for consistency in meaning and structure.

6. Practice Examples:

  • Identify and Correct:
    • Incorrect: Susan’s and Michael’s children (If they share children).
    • Correct: Susan and Michael’s children.
    • Incorrect: Jake and Andy’s books (If they have separate books).
    • Correct: Jake’s and Andy’s books.

Let’s practice!✒️