Confusing Contractions

Confusing Words

It’s vs. Its

• It’s is short for ‘it is’ or (in informal speech) ‘it has’.
  
  Here is it’s used in some example sentences:
  • It’s going to rain later.
  • Have you seen their new house? It’s got seven bedrooms.
     
• The word its is a possessive pronoun like ‘his’ or ‘her’. It means ‘belonging to it’. Apostrophes should never be used with possessive pronouns.
  
  Here is its used in some example sentences:
  • The dog chased after its ball.
  • Be careful on that chair – its legs are wobbly.

Click here for Spellzone word lists featuring the word its.

They’re vs. There
vs. Their

• They’re is short for ‘they are’.
  
  Here is they’re used in some example sentences: -
  • Do you know if they’re coming to the party?
  • They’re going to be very shocked when they find out the truth.
     
• There is an adverb used to refer to a place or the existence of something.
  
  Here is there used in some example sentences:
  • I’ve read all about Italy – I would love to go there one day.
  • There will be a very important lecture next week – make sure you don’t miss it.
     
• The word their is a possessive pronoun like ‘his’ or ‘her’. It means ‘belonging to them’. Apostrophes should never be used with possessive pronouns.
  
  Here is their used in some example sentences:
  • Their dog is very well behaved.
  • Will the party be at their house or are they hiring a hall?

You’re vs. Your

• You’re is short for ‘you are’.
  
  Here is you’re used in some example sentences:
  • Is it true you’re moving away?
  • You’re my best friend.
     
• The word your is a possessive pronoun like ‘his’ or ‘her’. It means ‘belonging to you’. Apostrophes should never be used with possessive pronouns.
  
  Here is your used in some example sentences:
  • I met your sister the other day.
  • Your speech was really funny.