The Correct Possessive Form for "Mr. Edwards"
What is the correct possessive form for the singular noun "Mr. Edwards"? Why is it the preferred form in English grammar?
Correct Possessive Form:
Explanation:
The question at hand pertains to the correct way to indicate possession for the singular noun "Mr. Edwards." In English grammar, forming possessives with nouns ending in "s" has been a subject of debate and variation. However, modern writing conventions tend to follow the rule of adding an apostrophe and an "s" ('s) to such nouns, even when they end in "s."
In this specific case, "Mr. Edwards's" is the preferred form to denote that something belongs to Mr. Edwards. While some style guides may suggest omitting the additional "s" after the apostrophe for simplicity, adding it ensures clarity and consistency. It avoids potential confusion with plural forms and distinguishes the possessive from the plural noun.
Using "Mr. Edwards's" adheres to a widely accepted standard in contemporary English writing, making it the recommended choice for formal and professional contexts. This rule helps writers maintain consistency and clarity in their writing.
Therefore, the correct possessive form for "Mr. Edwards" is "Mr. Edwards's".