Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing Double possessives. Words that do double duty. The monkeys aren't working.
Aug 12, 2025
Dive into the fascinating world of double possessives, like "a friend of Mignon's." Discover their grammatical quirks and how they enhance clarity in writing. Explore words that wear multiple hats, such as 'beetle' as both insect and tool. Uncover the nautical origins of 'scuttlebutt' and the concept of contranyms, revealing the rich tapestry of language history. Plus, enjoy a listener's funny familect story that celebrates personal expressions, connecting everyone through the power of words.
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Double Possessives Are Legitimate
- Double possessives like 'a friend of Bruce's' are grammatical and sometimes necessary.
- Mignon Fogarty notes usage varies by style and often sounds more natural than alternatives.
When To Use A Double Possessive
- Use a double possessive when the 'of' noun is animate and you mean 'one of many'.
- Follow AP for strict conditions, though Chicago and Merriam‑Webster allow more flexibility.
Possessives Clarify Ownership Versus Association
- Double possessives help distinguish ownership from association.
- A portrait of my parents names the subjects, while a portrait of my parents' implies they own it.
