To make the plural noun "geese" possessive, you add an apostrophe and an 's' ('s) to form geese's.
Understanding Possessive Forms for Irregular Plurals
Making "geese" possessive follows a specific rule for English grammar, especially for irregular plural nouns.
- Irregular Plural: "Geese" is the plural form of "goose." Unlike most nouns that form their plural by adding -s or -es (e.g., cat → cats, box → boxes), "geese" changes its internal vowel.
- Rule for Possessive: When a plural noun does not end in 's' (like "geese," "children," "men," "women"), you add an apostrophe and an 's' ('s) to show possession. This is the same rule applied to most singular nouns. This is because the plural form "geese" does not have an 's' at its end, allowing for the direct addition of 's.
This rule ensures clarity, indicating that something belongs to multiple geese.
Examples of "Geese's" in Sentences
Here are some practical examples of how to use "geese's" correctly:
- The geese's migration began early this year, a clear sign of changing seasons.
- We admired the geese's synchronized movements as they landed on the pond.
- The wildlife photographer captured the geese's intricate feather patterns.
- The farmer protected the geese's eggs from potential predators.
Possessive Noun Rules at a Glance
Understanding possessive forms can be simplified with these general rules:
- Singular Nouns: Add 's (e.g., dog's collar, student's book).
- Plural Nouns Ending in 's': Add only an apostrophe (e.g., cats' toys, students' desks).
- Irregular Plural Nouns (not ending in 's'): Add 's (e.g., children's laughter, men's restroom, geese's feathers).
For further reading on possessive nouns, you can consult resources like the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) or Grammarist.
Comparison Table
| Noun Type | Form | Example | Possessive Form | Example Possessive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singular | goose | The goose | goose's | The goose's feather |
| Regular Plural | ducks | The ducks | ducks' | The ducks' pond |
| Irregular Plural | geese | The geese | geese's | The geese's call |
By following these guidelines, you can accurately and effectively convey possession for "geese" and other irregular plural nouns in your writing.
