Word Usage

Mary W. Ng

June 26, 2009

its, it’s

Its is a possessive determiner and refers to the third person singular neuter pronoun it. It’s is the abbreviation of it is or it has.

Incorrect:This living room set with it’s contemporary design will bring a touch of class to any room.
Correct:This living room set with its contemporary design will bring a touch of class to any room.
Incorrect:If its acid-loving plants like rhododendrons, add cottonseed meal.
Correct:If it’s acid-loving plants like rhododendrons, add cottonseed meal.