In honor of National Grammar Day (did you even know that was a thing?), I’m sharing four pairs of frequently misused words. Why four? Because National Grammar Day is on March 4, of course!
1. It’s or its
It’s is always a contraction and means “it is” or “it has.” The apostrophe indicates the missing letter(s) and is NOT indicating possession.
Example: It’s going to be a long day.
Its is possessive. Don’t try to make it possessive with an apostrophe because it is already possessive.
Example: When he returned my book, its cover was bent.
2. Farther or further
Similar as these words are, they’re not interchangeable. Each word has a distinct meaning. Farther indicates measurable distance.
Example: She rode her bike farther down the trail.
Further indicates figurative distance.
Example: I will think about this further and get back to you.
3. Should have or should of
The correct phrase is should have—not should of, despite how many people say it that way.
Example: You should have studied your grammar book.
4. Then or than
One letter does make a difference. Then refers to sequence of time.
Example: I’m eating an apple, then I’m going to the doctor.
Than is used to show comparison.
Example: Mary is taller than you.
It’s important to learn the correct use of all these words because if you get them wrong, spell-check won’t mark them for you. And sharp-eyed readers may call you out on them.
Happy National Grammar Day!
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