Many people search for it’s or its because this small apostrophe causes big confusion.
You may be writing an email, a school assignment, a blog post, or even a social media caption, and suddenly you stop.
Should it be it’s or its? Both look correct. Both sound the same. But only one is right in each situation.
The confusion happens because English usually uses apostrophes to show ownership. But with it’s, the apostrophe does not show possession.
Instead, it changes the meaning of the word completely. This breaks the usual grammar rule, which makes learners and even native speakers unsure.
Spellcheck tools don’t always help. Sometimes they suggest the wrong option. Over time, people start guessing instead of knowing the rule.
That’s why this is one of the most searched grammar questions online.
This article clears the confusion once and for all. You’ll get a quick answer, simple rules, real examples, common mistakes, and clear advice for every audience.
By the end, you’ll confidently know when to use it’s and when to use its without hesitation.
It’s or Its – Quick Answer
It’s = it is or it has
Its = shows ownership (possession)
Examples:
- It’s raining today. → It is raining today.
- It’s been a long day. → It has been a long day.
- The dog wagged its tail. → Ownership, no apostrophe.
👉 Simple trick:
If you can replace the word with it is or it has, use it’s.
If not, use its.
The Origin of It’s or Its
The word it comes from Old English hit, meaning that thing.
Over time, English added apostrophes to show contractions, like it is → it’s.
But English also has possessive words that do not use apostrophes:
- his
- hers
- yours
- its
This is why its breaks the common rule. Even though it shows possession, it has no apostrophe. The apostrophe in it’s only exists because it replaces missing letters in it is or it has.
British English vs American English Spelling
There is no spelling difference between British and American English for it’s and its.
Both follow the same rules worldwide.
Comparison Table
| Form | Meaning | UK Usage | US Usage |
| it’s | it is / it has | ✔ Same | ✔ Same |
| its | possessive | ✔ Same | ✔ Same |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
Your audience does not change the rule here.
- Writing for US readers → same rule
- Writing for UK or Commonwealth readers → same rule
- Writing for a global audience → same rule
👉 The choice depends on meaning, not location.
Always ask:
Am I saying it is / it has?
If yes → it’s
If no → its
Common Mistakes with Its or It’s
The company changed it’s policy.
The company changed its policy.
Its going to rain today.
It’s going to rain today.
The phone lost it’s charge.
The phone lost its charge.
Why mistakes happen:
- Apostrophes feel correct
- Fast typing
- Auto-correct confusion
It’s or Its in Everyday Examples
Emails
- It’s great to hear from you.
- Please update its settings before sending.
News
- The city announced its new plan.
- It’s expected to start next week.
Social Media
- It’s finally happening!
- Every brand has its own style.
Formal Writing
- The organization changed its structure.
- It’s important to follow the rules.
It’s or Its – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search data shows it’s or its is one of the most common grammar questions worldwide.
- High search volume in:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- India
- Pakistan
- Australia
Searches spike during:
- Exam seasons
- Content writing work
- Professional email drafting
This shows people want quick clarity, not complex grammar lessons.
Comparison Table: It’s vs Its
| Feature | It’s | Its |
| Apostrophe | Yes | No |
| Meaning | it is / it has | possession |
| Grammar type | Contraction | Possessive |
| Common mistake | Overused | Often forgotten |
FAQs About It’s or Its
1. Is its ever written with an apostrophe?
No. Its never has an apostrophe when showing ownership.
2. Can it’s show possession?
No. It’s never shows ownership.
3. Why is English so confusing here?
Because possessive pronouns usually don’t use apostrophes.
4. Is its’ ever correct?
No. Its’ is always wrong.
5. Do British and American English use different rules?
No. The rules are exactly the same.
6. How can I remember the difference?
Replace the word with it is. If it works, use it’s.
7. Will grammar checkers always catch this?
No. You should always double-check manually.
Conclusion
The difference between it’s and its is small, but the impact is big.
One tiny apostrophe can change the meaning of a sentence and affect how professional your writing looks.
The good news is that the rule is simple once you understand it.
Use it’s only when you mean it is or it has.
Use its when you’re talking about ownership.
This rule does not change based on country, style, or audience. It works the same everywhere.
Most mistakes happen because writers guess instead of checking meaning. Once you stop guessing and apply the quick test, the confusion disappears.
With this knowledge, you can write emails, articles, exams, and captions with confidence.
Remember: meaning first, punctuation second. Master this one rule, and you’ll never hesitate between it’s and its again.
Read More:
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Hi, I’m Ethan Hawkesley. I love writing and exploring the English language. On Thinkoora.com, I share tips, insights, and explanations to help readers understand words and writing more easily.
