When it comes to creating possessive forms of proper nouns, especially names ending in “s” like Roberts, it can be tricky. Should it be Roberts’ or Roberts’s? The answer isn’t as simple as you’d think. Different style guides have varying recommendations, which means you need to consider the Chicago Manual of Style, AP Style, and even APA guidelines before making a decision. In this article, we’ll break down these rules, provide clear examples, and help you choose the most suitable version for your writing.
Understanding Possessive Forms
A possessive form shows ownership or a close relationship between two things. To create a singular possessive form, you usually add an apostrophe and “s” to the noun. For example, “the dog’s collar” or “my friend’s house.” However, when a singular noun ends in “s,” things get a bit more complicated.
In the case of Roberts, both Roberts’ and Roberts’s are considered acceptable. The choice depends on the style guide you follow and how you want the possessive to sound in a sentence.
Related: Ross’s or Ross’? A Deep Dive into Possessive Forms
Chicago Manual of Style vs. AP Style
Let’s dive into two of the most commonly referenced style guides: the Chicago Manual of Style and AP Style. These two systems are frequently used in publishing, journalism, and academia, but they approach possessives differently.
Chicago Manual of Style
According to the Chicago Manual of Style, the recommended version for singular nouns ending in “s” (like Roberts) is to add an apostrophe plus “s.” This means that Roberts’s would be correct under Chicago guidelines. Why? Because Chicago aims to make the possessive form clear and unambiguous. The extra “s” makes the word easier to pronounce, especially when spoken out loud.
Example:
- Roberts’s car was parked in the driveway. In this sentence, “Roberts’s” clearly shows that the car belongs to Roberts.
AP Style
The Associated Press (AP) Style, on the other hand, takes a more streamlined approach. For singular possessive forms of names ending in “s,” AP Style prefers to add only an apostrophe, omitting the extra “s.” In this case, the correct form would be Roberts’.
Example:
- Roberts’ decision to resign shocked everyone. Here, “Roberts’” follows the AP Style, keeping the possessive form simple and quick to read.
Popular Preferences and Real-World Use
Despite the guidelines, many writers and speakers follow what’s more popular or intuitive. In casual conversation, you may hear people using Roberts’s simply because it sounds more natural. But in AP-driven media, like newspapers, you’ll often see Roberts’ because it’s cleaner and less cluttered on the page.
APA Style: Where Does It Stand?
Although less frequently discussed, APA Style (American Psychological Association) also has its rules. Like Chicago, APA suggests that writers use Roberts’s when showing possession for a singular noun ending in “s.” This is to avoid confusion, especially in academic writing, where clarity is paramount.
Example:
- The results of Roberts’s study were groundbreaking.
In the APA guide, the extra “s” helps readers identify the owner in a clear and logical way, which is crucial in detailed academic texts.
Scenario Examples: How to Use Roberts’ and Roberts’s
Let’s look at some scenarios where both Roberts’ and Roberts’s could appear in everyday sentences.
1. Singular Possessive in Personal Context
- Roberts’s jacket was left at the party. This follows the Chicago and APA Style, with the additional “s” added after the apostrophe to show possession.
- I borrowed Roberts’ phone for a quick call. This follows AP Style, where only an apostrophe is used after the final “s.”
2. Possessive Form in Professional Context
- Roberts’s report was well-received by the board. Again, this aligns with Chicago and APA Style, with the emphasis on clarity and formality.
- The outcome of Roberts’ case changed legal precedent. This sentence adheres to AP Style, where brevity is preferred, especially in news writing.
3. Multiple Roberts in a Family or Group
Now, what if there are multiple people named Roberts? In this case, you’re dealing with a plural possessive form. If you’re referring to something owned by the entire Roberts family or a group of individuals with the last name Roberts, the correct form would be Roberts’.
Example:
- The Roberts’ house is located at the end of the street. Here, “Roberts’” shows that the house belongs to the entire Roberts family.
4. Proper Nouns Ending in S: Common Pitfalls
Many people struggle with proper nouns ending in “s,” like Roberts or James. The important thing is to stay consistent with the style guide you’re following. If you’re writing a blog post or academic paper, it’s always a good idea to clarify your chosen style early on to avoid confusion.
Why the Debate?
The debate over Roberts’ or Roberts’s boils down to readability, pronunciation, and style. Different style guides offer different rules based on what they believe is most effective for their target audience. While Chicago and APA prioritize clarity (hence, Roberts’s), AP Style focuses on simplicity (hence, Roberts’).
Conclusion: Which One Should You Use?
In the end, whether you choose Roberts’ or Roberts’s depends on your writing context and the style guide you’re following. If you’re working with the Chicago Manual of Style or APA, go with Roberts’s for better clarity. If you’re following AP Style, stick with Roberts’ for simplicity.
No matter which version you choose, consistency is key. Sticking with one style throughout your writing will avoid confusion and help your readers follow along smoothly.
Burak Ozcivat is an experienced blogger at Grammar Gem, where he shares his expertise in grammar and the English language. With a passion for simplifying complex topics, Burak delivers engaging, informative content that helps readers master grammar. His insightful posts are a go-to resource for language enthusiasts.
