A Conversation for Correct Use of the Apostrophe In English
Apostrophe advice please
Researcher 210162 Started conversation Nov 27, 2002
I have recently been elected as chair of the Brightons Residents' Association. As you might gather, these residents live in an area known as 'the Brightons' and the association clearly belongs to them. Nevertheless, I would like to drop the apostrophe. Can I justify this action? Opinions please.
Apostrophe advice please
Gnomon - time to move on Posted Nov 27, 2002
It is perfectly acceptable to use the apostrophe as you have shown it, but it would be more normal to omit it. There is no need for it. It is an association for residents so it a residents association. That doesn't mean "belonging to the residents". In the same way, if you had an association for Land, it would be the Land Association, not the Land's Association.
Apostrophe advice please
Researcher 210162 Posted Nov 27, 2002
Many thanks for this. Your reply makes perfect sense. I never felt happy with the apostrophe in the title and I am delighted to be able to dispense with it. Now, just the acronym problem to consider!
Apostrophe advice please
Martin Harper Posted Nov 27, 2002
should be singular, though: Brighton Residents, not Brightons Residents... 
Apostrophe advice please
Martin Harper Posted Nov 27, 2002
Irritatingly, I spotted that on the first read, but forgot...
Sorry!
-Martin
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Apostrophe advice please
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