Every year around this time, I ask myself the same question: Why is the lowly apostrophe such an enigma for some people? As I scan cards, signs, and posters celebrating mothers (Yes, that day is fast approaching!), I notice that most people designing these items have no idea about how to use an apostrophe. Every card, poster, and advertisement I’ve seen states “Happy Mother’s Day!” Are we celebrating just ONE mother, and if so, whose? (decidedly not who’s, which means who is)
“The word “Mother’s” signifies a singular noun: My mother’s birthday is next week. That is my mother’s jacket.
In order to recognize MORE than one mother, do the following: First, make the word plural: mothers. THEN make it possessive by placing the apostrophe AFTER the s. The correct usage is Happy Mothers’ Day!
The same rule applies to Fathers’ Day. Happy Fathers’ Day!
By the way, possessive pronouns never use apostrophes. (his, hers its: It’s means “it is”) It’s not that hard!
Happy Mothers’ & Fathers’ Days!
