When it comes to learning the possessive form of names ending with an “S,” we’re met with a problem. Some things tell us to keep the “S” after the apostrophe, while others tell us to drop it. This article will give you the definitive answer as to which is best.
Louis’ Or Louis’s: Which Is The Correct Possessive Form?
“Louis'” is the correct possessive form according to The Associated Press Stylebook. This is the most commonly taught style in schools and education. “Louis’s” is the correct possessive form according to the Chicago and Microsoft Manuals of Style.
While “Louis'” is the form that we’re mostly taught in education, that doesn’t mean it’s the most popular choice. In fact, the statistics related to how often each form is used completely contradict this information.
According to Google Ngram Viewer, “Louis’s” is the more popular choice of the two for native speakers. They prefer to keep the “S” after the ending and follow the Chicago and Microsoft Manual of Style rules.
When To Use Louis’
Let’s start with the AP style choice. Remember, this is the one we’re taught at schools, but it’s not the most common choice for many writers.
“Louis'” is correct according to AP Style. In this style, we’re taught that any names ending with an “S” have the “S” after the apostrophe dropped when becoming the possessive form.
The “S” is dropped after the apostrophe to aid with the pronunciation of the name. You might notice that from the following:
- Louis’ diary
- Louis’s diary
While both phrases are correct, “Louis'” is slightly easier to pronounce. You don’t need to find a way to use the double “S” sound that is created with the other style.
Examples of Louis’
- Louis’ diary was left out for us all to see.
- You must be Louis’ mother; it’s a pleasure to meet you.
- I am not Louis’ mentor anymore!
- I will be Louis’ only friend if you guys leave us!
- You should be Louis’ lookout while he does this.
“Louis'” is one correct possessive form. We use it when “Louis” owns an object in a sentence. This object comes directly after the apostrophe to show what “Louis” owns.
When To Use Louis’s
“Louis’s” is the more popular possessive form. Many native writers like to use it due to the readability that it provides.
“Louis’s” is the correct possessive form according to both the Microsoft Manual of Style and the Chicago Manual of Style. In these styles, any names that end with an “S” must still require the extra “S” after the apostrophe when in the possessive form.
This time, we keep the two “S” letters at the end of the name. We do this because it helps most readers to pick up on the possessive form at a moment’s notice.
- Louis’s adventure
- Louis’ adventure
While both of the above are possessive forms, only “Louis’s” is clear. We can use the double “S” to indicate that it’s possessive. The apostrophe on its own is slightly harder to spot.
Examples of Louis’s
- Louis’s adventure has only just begun.
- You are Louis’s new girlfriend.
- We are not Louis’s friends anymore.
- Where is Louis’s password?
- We should buy Louis’s trainers for him.
“Louis’s” is another correct possessive form. It works in the same way, and this time the object comes directly after the “‘s” of the possessive form of “Louis” to show what he owns.
Is There A Preference For Using Louis’ or Louis’s In US vs. UK?
We’ll also show you the difference between the possessive forms in both American and British English.
According to Google Ngram Viewer, “Louis’s” is the more popular possessive choice in American English. They prefer the Microsoft and Chicago Manuals of Style rules.
According to Google Ngram Viewer, “Louis’s” is also the more popular choice in British English. However, the difference is much closer in this case, showing that both forms are used in British English.
Both American and British English use “Louis’s” over “Louis’.” However, the dividing line is much closer in British English.
Final Thoughts
“Louis'” and “Louis’s” are the only two acceptable possessive forms of “Louis.” However, when it comes to choosing which you write with, it’s entirely up to you and your personal preference. Make sure you stick to the same style throughout your writing, though.
You may also like: Jess’ Or Jess’s? Here’s The Possessive Form (Helpful Examples)
Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here.
