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Study Section 9: Using Contractions Correctly

9.1 Connect

Technically speaking, contractions aren’t necessary in written English. Using the full version of a
word is always grammatically correct. In fact, when writing formal or academic papers they should
be avoided. However, contractions can make your writing seem more friendly and accessible. They
give the appearance that you are actually “talking” to your reader. This is important to keep in mind
when writing sermons or other messages which are to be spoken orally. So here we will go over the
correct use of contractions because both formal and informal communication will be used throughout your
career.

9.2 Using Contractions Correctly

Since the word contract means to squeeze together, it seems only logical that a contraction is two words
made shorter by placing an apostrophe where letters have been omitted.

Examples of common contractions in the English language include:

• I’m: I am
• Can’t: can not
• We’ve: we have
• Should’ve: should have
• Could’ve: could have
• She’ll: she will
• He’s: he is
• They’d: they would
• Won’t: will not
• Weren’t: were not
• Wasn’t: was not
• Wouldn’t: would not
• Shouldn’t: should not
• Isn’t: is not

It’s and Its

It’s and its are two of the most commonly confused words in the English language. However, understanding the
difference between these two words is crucial for successful communication.

It’s is a contraction for it is or it has. For example:
• I think it’s going to be a great service today.
• It’s cloudy today, and I think it’s going to rain.
• It’s everything I wanted it to be.

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