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Pedants' corner

Apostrophe abuse!

(12 Posts)
Katek Fri 21-Apr-17 09:56:42

Had a moment outside Tesco the other day and I'm still debating whether to contact them or not! They had racks of plants for sale including a little wooden crate with a cardboard wrapper stating that these plants were suitable for patio's! This was no casual handwritten cardboard sign, but a pukka printed cardboard band. So this error has been made by someone in the design department and gone unnoticed by several people as it passed through the system. I don't suppose it's worth saying anything as the deed has been done but I was swearing inwardly!

hildajenniJ Fri 21-Apr-17 10:03:21

I wouldn't bother trying to correct them. The debate about "ten items or less" has been going on for years.

Katek Fri 21-Apr-17 10:17:41

Very true! I'll just have a harrumph or two and rise above it. (Or should that be an harrumph?)

Christinefrance Fri 21-Apr-17 12:45:34

I think the person who said we should abolish apostrophes was probably right. I get so irritated by their misuse,people other than us (we) pedants are not bothered.

Charleygirl Fri 21-Apr-17 13:13:39

I would point out to them the the error of their ways or maybe that should be way's!

vampirequeen Fri 21-Apr-17 13:39:42

A puppy dies each time someone misuses an apostrophe. Better to stop using apostrophes...unless you hate puppies of course grin

Newquay Fri 21-Apr-17 14:07:06

And. . . . I've just read "Siege" by Simon Kernick-a cracking tale- and, several times had to correct the plural after "none"! What is the world coming to? Lol!

sunseeker Fri 21-Apr-17 14:11:40

Is there a charity to support those suffering from the trauma of apostrophe abuse? Why aren't the government supporting this! grin

Katek Fri 21-Apr-17 15:35:59

I nearly had to take to my bed you know!

NanaMacGeek Fri 21-Apr-17 17:30:02

Take a look at this - www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-39459831
The Grammar Vigilante has my gratitude - long may he roam the streets of Bristol, righting wrongs and defending the correct use of apostrophes.
When told there is really no need to use apostrophes any more (usually by DS, who should know better, although I suspect he is winding me up) I always write out the following as a demonstration that they can add clarity:-

Residents refuse to be placed in bins.

grandtanteJE65 Fri 21-Jul-17 14:19:34

I refuse too, although I nearly died of laughter.

mrsmopp Sat 07-Oct-17 14:32:22

Greengrocers have been abusing apostrophes for years, by displaying signs that read, Cabbage's 50p, Apple's 4 for £1 and so on.