It’s vs. Its – English Grammar

In this article, we will explore the difference between “it’s” and “its,” which is important for English learners. Although these words sound the same, they have different meanings and uses. We will explain when to use “it’s” and when to use “its,” along with examples to help you master these common words.

What Does “It’s” Mean?

“It’s” is a contraction of “it is” or “it has.” Use “it’s” when you want to combine these words into one. Here are some examples:

• It’s (It is) a sunny day.
  • Explanation: “It’s” is used here as a contraction of “it is” to describe the weather.
• It’s (It has) been a long time since we last met.
  • Explanation: “It’s” is used here as a contraction of “it has” to describe an action that started in the past and continues in the present.

What Does “Its” Mean?

“Its” is a possessive adjective. Use “its” to show that something belongs to or is related to a thing, animal, or baby whose gender is not known. Here are some examples:

• The cat licked its fur.
  • Explanation: “Its” is used here to show that the fur belongs to the cat.
• The company changed its logo.
  • Explanation: “Its” is used here to show that the logo belongs to the company.

How to Remember the Difference

A quick way to remember the difference is to ask yourself if you can replace “it’s” with “it is” or “it has.” If you can, then “it’s” is correct. If you are showing possession, then use “its.”

Examples

Here are more examples to help you understand the difference:

• It’s (It is) raining outside.
  • Use “it’s” for the contraction of “it is.”
• The dog wagged its tail.
  • Use “its” to show possession.
• It’s (It has) been a busy week.
  • Use “it’s” for the contraction of “it has.”
• The book lost its cover.
  • Use “its” to show possession.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Incorrect: The car lost it’s wheel.
  • Correct: The car lost its wheel.
  • Explanation: “Its” is needed here to show possession.
• Incorrect: Its a beautiful day.
  • Correct: It’s a beautiful day.
  • Explanation: “It’s” is needed here as a contraction of “it is.”

It’s vs. Its Quiz

Test your understanding of “it’s” and “its” with this quiz:

1. ___ going to be a great party.
   • a) It’s
   • b) Its
2. The bird built ___ nest in the tree.
   • a) it’s
   • b) its
3. ___ been a while since we talked.
   • a) It’s
   • b) Its
4. The baby threw ___ toy on the floor.
   • a) it’s
   • b) its
5. ___ not too late to change your mind.
   • a) It’s
   • b) Its
6. The computer needs ___ software updated.
   • a) it’s
   • b) its
7. ___ time for lunch now.
   • a) It’s
   • b) Its
8. The team lost ___ first match.
   • a) it’s
   • b) its
9. The tree lost ___ leaves in the storm.
   • a) it’s
   • b) its
10. ___ been raining all day.
    • a) It’s
    • b) Its

Quiz Answers

1. a) It’s
2. b) its
3. a) It’s
4. b) its
5. a) It’s
6. b) its
7. a) It’s
8. b) its
9. b) its
10. a) It’s

Conclusion

Knowing when to use “it’s” and “its” is essential for clear and correct writing. “It’s” is a contraction for “it is” or “it has,” and is used when you want to combine these words. On the other hand, “its” is used to show possession, indicating that something belongs to or is related to a thing. Understanding this difference can greatly improve your writing skills. By consistently applying these rules, you will communicate your ideas more effectively and avoid common grammatical errors.