LITTLE OLD LADY WITH THE RED PURSE

Grammar Lesson #6: The difference between its and it's

One thing I’ve learned as I’ve gotten older is most people hate change. It’s really not surprising, I guess, because our brains are wired for consistency, making change feel threatening. But it’s funny when this inherent preference for the familiar flairs up in some of the simplest situations — like the introduction of automated trash pickup. Even though it promises enhanced safety, increased efficiency and reduced costs, many folks around my town are anxious and hatey about the new robotic arm that’s going to grab, lift and empty our new garbage carts in the future.

Can you imagine how The Little Old Lady With The Red Purse felt when she discovered her grammar guide was missing, and it might be in one of the new trash carts? She had really wanted to show everyone the rule for its and it’s — two of the words most often confused in the English language that have never changed.

Although they may sound the same, they are spelled differently and have different functions. Its is a possessive pronoun showing ownership, and it’s is a contraction meaning it is or it has. For example:

It’s going to be faster to use the new automated system.

Its arrow should point to the street.

Well, here’s The Little Old Lady With The Red Purse explaining the use of its and it’s herself.

I guess even The Old Lady With The Red Purse can adapt to change (sometimes) — just not when it means using “new” grammar.

It’ll Be OK.

~~~

“I’m not sure what’s tighter, my jeans or my grip on the past.” ~ Anonymous