Tuesday 15 November 2011

Tuesday Tips: Ask Tanya!

Dear Tanya,
Help! I can never remember the difference between their, they're and there. Any tips?
Sam, Illinois

Sure! Boy, the English language can be tricky at times, can't it? Here are a few suggestions to ensure correct usage of these terms.

Their is used when referring to ownership. Eg. He was searching for their luggage.

They're is a contraction of the words they are, so when you're using it you need to think of those two words. And they are usually doing something. Eg. They're going to the movies tonight.

There refers to a location. Eg. Did you see the bonfire over there?

I find if you always double check your sentences when writing, eventually knowing the difference will become second nature. Good luck!

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