- "Its" is a possessive form, indicating ownership or belonging. It is used to show that something belongs to or is associated with a particular person, thing, or animal.
- "Their" is a possessive pronoun used to indicate that something belongs to a group of people or things previously mentioned. It denotes ownership or association with a plural noun.
When referring to individuals who identify as non-binary, some may use gender-neutral pronouns such as "they/them," and the possessive form of these pronouns would be "their."
🖊️ The company celebrated its anniversary with a grand event, showcasing its achievements over the past decade.
🖊️ The students proudly displayed their artwork at the exhibition, showcasing their creativity and talent.
🖊️ The team celebrated their victory with cheers and high-fives, proud of their collective effort on the field.
When to use its and their
Its
Use "its" when indicating possession by a singular entity, typically an animal or an inanimate object.
"Its" is not a possessive pronoun. It is a possessive determiner or possessive adjective that indicates ownership, possession, or association with a singular noun, typically referring to an animal or an inanimate object. It is used before a noun to show that something belongs to or is associated with the subject mentioned.
Example sentences
- The cat cleaned its paws meticulously after exploring the garden.
- The antique clock chimed softly, indicating its age and craftsmanship.
- The car accelerated smoothly, showing off its powerful engine.
- The baby reached for its mother's comforting embrace.
- The company proudly displayed its latest innovations at the technology expo.
- The majestic eagle spread its wings and soared through the sky.
- The old library was known for its vast collection of rare manuscripts.
- The robot autonomously navigated the room using its advanced sensors.
- The laptop closed its lid automatically when not in use.
- The ancient castle showcased its rich history through elaborate tapestries and artifacts.
Examples from the web
"In response, it cleaned up its act, and thereby lifted the bar for the entire industry." - The New York Times
"It had high profit margins and real pricing power, even as it was paying its workers union wages." - The Economist
Their
Use "their" when indicating possession by multiple people or things, representing a plural noun.
Example sentences
- The students gathered in the library, proudly discussing their achievements and academic projects.
- The athletes celebrated their victory with a parade, displaying their medals and trophies.
- The neighbors decided to share their garden produce with the community.
- The siblings coordinated their efforts to organize a surprise birthday party for their mother.
- The team members contributed their unique skills to complete the challenging project successfully.
- The couple showcased their artistic talents through a joint exhibition at the local gallery.
- The volunteers dedicated their time to improve the local park for the community.
- The twins wore matching outfits, emphasizing their close bond and connection.
- The friends decided to pool their resources to plan a memorable vacation together.
- The family proudly presented their ancestral heirlooms at the museum exhibit.
Examples from the web
"As an environmentalist, and someone who believes that everyone in this world has a right to a healthy and nutritious diet of their choosing, I could not have chosen a more counter-productive path." - The New York Times
"We are very aware of the impact it will have on those involved and we are doing all we can to provide our support to those injured and their families." - The Guardian
Think singular ("its") for animals or objects; consider "his" or "her" replacement. Think plural ("their") for groups or people. Practice using both in sentences to reinforce correct usage and enhance recall.
The use of "its" and "their" over time
Examining the graph below, we can see that "their" is used more frequently than "its."
FAQs
Is it ours or theirs?
"Ours" indicates possession by us, emphasizing collective ownership. "Theirs" denotes possession by them, highlighting ownership by a separate group. Both express possession, with "ours" emphasizing inclusivity, and "theirs" signaling external ownership within a specific context.
What is the difference between theirs, theirs, and they're?
"Theirs" is a possessive pronoun, signifying ownership. "There's" is a contraction for "there is" or "there has." "They're" is a contraction for "they are." Differentiate based on possession, existence, or a contraction for the subject "they" and "are."
Is theirs a singular pronoun?
No, "theirs" is not a singular pronoun; it is a plural possessive pronoun. It indicates possession by more than one person or thing. Use "theirs" when referring to something owned collectively by a group or multiple individuals, not a singular entity.
Summary
In conclusion, mastering the distinction between "its" and "their" is essential for precise communication. "Its" signifies singular possession, often involving animals or objects, while "their" represents plural ownership, emphasizing possession by multiple individuals or entities. Practicing correct usage enhances writing clarity.
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