its and it's

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Linguistic Reminder

(This reminder is available in English only.)

Problem

Its and it's are often used incorrectly. Because the apostrophe s (i.e. 's) generally indicates possession, some writers mistakenly use the contraction it's as a possessive form.

Solution

USE ITS

USE IT'S

  • as the possessive form of it:

    Canada relies on its exports to increase its prosperity.

  • as a contraction of it is:

    It's snowing!

  • as a contraction of it has:

    It's been a long day.

Tip

To choose between its and it's, try the following substitutions:

If you can substitute a possessive (such as his or her), use its.

If you can substitute it is or it has, use it's.

The puppy chased its (his) tail until it crashed into the sofa.

My boat is fast, but its (her) jib is worn.

It's (or It is) a miracle that Sam survived the rapids after capsizing his canoe.

It's (or It has) been an exciting and educational journey through four Asian countries.

Linguistic Recommendation reference number

REM-5/2008-03

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