The proper usage of ‘yesterdays’ and ‘yesterday’s’ can often be confusing for writers. While both forms are derived from the word ‘yesterday,’ they have distinct meanings and applications.
‘Yesterdays’ is the plural form of ‘yesterday’ and is used to refer to multiple instances of the past day. However, it is important to note that the plural possessive form, ‘Yesterdays,’ is never correct to use.
On the other hand, ‘yesterday’s’ is the singular possessive form, indicating ownership or association with the singular day that has already passed. This form is commonly used to describe something that belongs to or is related to yesterday.
It is worth mentioning that ‘yesterdays’ is a rare form and is typically used in poetic contexts. Therefore, when choosing between ‘yesterdays’ and ‘yesterday’s,’ it is generally recommended to opt for the singular possessive form, ‘yesterday’s,’ unless writing poetically or referring to multiple instances of the past day.
This article will provide helpful examples to clarify the appropriate usage of these terms.
Plural Form
The plural form of yesterday, yesterdays, can be used when referring to multiple occurrences of the past day. In English, there are many examples of plural forms that indicate multiple instances of something.
For instance, when we talk about multiple days in the past, we can use the plural form yesterdays. However, it is important to note that yesterdays is not commonly used in everyday language and is typically only used poetically.
One common mistake in using the singular possessive form of yesterday is to mistakenly use yesterdays instead. It is important to remember that yesterdays is the plural form and not the possessive form. Therefore, it is grammatically incorrect to use yesterdays to indicate ownership by yesterday.
Singular Possessive
Regarding the concept of singular possessive, it is grammatically correct to use the possessive form of yesterday to indicate ownership by yesterday. However, it is important to note that the plural possessive form of yesterday, “Yesterdays,” does not exist and should never be used. This singular possessive form is mainly used in formal or academic writing to convey ownership or attribution. To illustrate this, consider the following table:
| Singular Possessive | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Yesterday’s | Yesterday’s weather was perfect for outdoor activities. |
By using the singular possessive form “Yesterday’s,” we emphasize that the weather belongs to yesterday. This grammatical construction ensures clarity and precision in expressing ownership. It is important to maintain this grammatical correctness when using the possessive form of yesterday in writing.
Rare Usage
Rarely used in everyday language, the plural possessive form of yesterday is nonexistent and should be avoided in formal writing. Instead, alternative expressions can be used to refer to multiple yesterdays. For instance, phrases like ‘in the past,’ ‘previous days,’ or ‘days gone by’ can be employed to convey the same meaning. These expressions are more commonly used and do not carry the rare and poetic connotations that yesterdays does.
The word ‘yesterday’ itself holds historical significance as it has been in use since the Middle English period, evolving from the Old English term ‘geostran dæg,’ meaning ‘day before.’ It is interesting to note the longevity and continued usage of this word throughout the centuries, highlighting its importance in our everyday language.
Contractions
Contractions, such as ‘yesterday’s’ for ‘yesterday is,’ are commonly used in informal language but should be avoided in formal writing. While contractions are generally accepted and widely used in everyday conversation, they can undermine the formality and professionalism of academic or business writing.
Here are four reasons why contractions are not suitable for formal writing:
- Clarity: Contractions can sometimes create ambiguity or confusion, as they may be interpreted differently by different readers.
- Precision: Using full forms instead of contractions allows for more precise and specific language, ensuring that the intended meaning is accurately conveyed.
- Professionalism: In formal writing, it is essential to maintain a professional tone, and contractions can detract from this by appearing casual or colloquial.
- Consistency: Consistently avoiding contractions helps to establish a consistent and formal style throughout the entire piece of writing.
While contractions are common in everyday speech, they should be avoided in formal writing for the sake of clarity, precision, professionalism, and consistency.
Not Correct to Use
Incorrect usage of the plural possessive form of yesterday, Yesterdays, should be avoided in formal writing due to its grammatical inaccuracy and lack of widespread usage.
It is not appropriate to use Yesterdays as the plural possessive form of yesterday because it does not follow the standard rules of English grammar. Yesterdays is a rare form that is typically only used poetically or in informal contexts.
In formal writing, it is important to maintain proper grammar and adhere to established conventions. Therefore, it is incorrect to use Yesterdays as the plural possessive form of yesterday. Instead, it is recommended to use the singular possessive form, yesterday’s, to indicate ownership by yesterday.
