Other’s or Others’: When to Use Each (Easy Rules + Examples)

Confused about when to use “other’s” or “others'”? You’re not alone. This common grammar question trips up many writers. Let’s dive into the correct usage, examples, and tips to help you master this tricky aspect of English grammar.

Key Takeaways

• “Other’s” is singular possessive
• “Others'” is plural possessive
• Context determines which form to use
• Practice and proofreading help prevent mistakes

Other’s vs. Others’: The Quick Answer

“Other’s” is singular possessive, while “others'” is plural possessive. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• “Other’s” = belonging to one other person or thing
• “Others'” = belonging to multiple other people or things

The Other’s vs Others’ Dilemma: Understanding the Confusion

The confusion between “other’s” and “others'” stems from several factors:

• Similar pronunciation: Both sound identical when spoken
• Apostrophe placement: The position changes based on singular or plural
• Irregular plural: “Other” becomes “others” in plural form
• Possessive rules: Many struggle with possessive apostrophe rules in general

Mastering the Apostrophe: Key Rules for Other’s and Others’

To use the apostrophe correctly with “other’s” and “others'”, follow these guidelines:

Rule	Example	Explanation
For singular possessive, add ‘s	other’s	Use when referring to one other person or thing
For plural possessive, add ‘ after the s	others’	Use when referring to multiple other people or things
Never use others’s	Incorrect: others’s	This form is always wrong
Consider the context	The other’s opinion vs. Others’ opinions	Determine if it’s one or multiple others

Remember these key points:

• The apostrophe placement changes based on singular or plural use
• Context is crucial in determining which form to use
• When in doubt, ask yourself: “Is this referring to one other or multiple others?”

Mastering these rules will help you use “other’s” and “others'” correctly in your writing.

When to Use Other’s

Use “other’s” when referring to something belonging to a single other person or thing. It’s the possessive form of “other.”

Examples of Other’s in Sentences

• I borrowed my neighbor’s lawn mower when my other’s broke down.
• The cat played with the other’s toy.
• She respected the other’s opinion on the matter.

When to Use Others’

“Others'” is the plural possessive form, used when referring to something belonging to multiple other people or things.

Examples of Others’ in Sentences

• We should consider others’ feelings before making a decision.
• The students borrowed each others’ notes to prepare for the exam.
• The company values its employees’ and others’ opinions equally.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many writers struggle with “other’s” and “others'”. Here are some tips to help you avoid common errors:

Mistake	Correction	Explanation
Others opinions	Others’ opinions	Add apostrophe for plural possessive
Other’s ideas (referring to multiple people)	Others’ ideas	Use plural form for multiple people
Others’s thoughts	Others’ thoughts	No extra ‘s’ needed for plural possessive

Related Grammar Rules: Possessives

Understanding “other’s” and “others'” is part of mastering possessives in English. Here are some related rules:

• Someone else’s: Always use apostrophe + s, even though it ends in ‘s’
• Boss’s or bosses’: “Boss’s” for singular, “bosses'” for plural
• People’s: Correct plural possessive of “people”

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding with these exercises:

• The (others / other’s / others’) belongings were left in the lost and found.
• We should respect each (others / other’s / others’) privacy.
• The child played with the (others / other’s / others’) toys.

(Answers: 1. others’, 2. other’s, 3. other’s)

Other’s or Others’ in Common Phrases and Idioms

Understanding how to use “other’s” and “others'” correctly in common phrases can help solidify your grasp of these terms. Let’s explore some frequently used expressions:

Phrase	Correct Form	Explanation
In others’ shoes	Others’	Refers to the shoes of multiple people
Each other’s company	Other’s	Refers to the company of one other person
Others’ point of view	Others’	Refers to the viewpoints of multiple people
The other’s perspective	Other’s	Refers to the perspective of one other person

Remember, context is key. Always consider whether you’re referring to one other or multiple others when using these phrases.
Using “other’s” and “others'” correctly in common expressions will enhance your writing and demonstrate a strong command of English grammar.

Conclusion

Mastering the difference between “other’s” and “others'” will improve your writing and boost your grammar confidence. Remember: “other’s” for singular possessive, “others'” for plural possessive. Practice regularly, and you’ll get it right every time!
Have more grammar questions? Explore our other articles for more tips and explanations!