Greengrocer’s Apostrophe

Pronunciation: /ˈɡriːnˌɡroʊsərz əˈpɑstɹəfi/

Definitions of greengrocer’s apostrophe

noun Apostrophe: In literature, a figure of speech in which a character speaks to an object, idea, or person who is absent or dead.

Example Sentences

A1 I saw a greengrocer's apostrophe on the sign for apple's at the market.

A2 The menu at the restaurant had several examples of greengrocer's apostrophes.

B1 The teacher explained the concept of greengrocer's apostrophe during the grammar lesson.

B2 As an editor, I always correct any greengrocer's apostrophes I come across in writing.

C1 The author's novel was criticized for its excessive use of greengrocer's apostrophes.

C2 In professional writing, it is important to avoid greengrocer's apostrophes to maintain credibility.

Examples of greengrocer’s apostrophe in a Sentence

formal The editor corrected the greengrocer's apostrophe in the manuscript before sending it to print.

informal I saw a sign with a greengrocer's apostrophe in the market today.

slang Why do people always use greengrocer's apostrophes on their social media posts?

figurative Her constant misuse of greengrocer's apostrophes was a reflection of her lack of attention to detail.

Grammatical Forms of greengrocer’s apostrophe

• plural: greengrocers' apostrophes
• comparative: more greengrocer's apostrophes
• superlative: most greengrocer's apostrophes
• present tense: greengrocer's apostrophe
• future tense: will have greengrocer's apostrophe
• perfect tense: has had greengrocer's apostrophe
• continuous tense: is using greengrocer's apostrophe
• singular: greengrocer's apostrophe
• positive degree: greengrocer's apostrophe
• infinitive: to use greengrocer's apostrophe
• gerund: using greengrocer's apostrophe
• participle: used greengrocer's apostrophe

Origin and Evolution of greengrocer’s apostrophe

First Known Use: 1970 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The term 'greengrocer's apostrophe' originated as a humorous way to describe the common error of incorrectly using an apostrophe to form plurals, often seen in handwritten signs at greengrocers' shops.

Evolution of the word: The term has evolved to be used more broadly to describe any incorrect use of apostrophes, not just in the context of greengrocers. It has become a well-known term among grammar enthusiasts and is often used humorously to point out mistakes in writing.