Correct Use
- Your is a possessive adjective.
- You’re is a contraction of you are.
- ○ Your dog is extremely well-behaved.
- ○ You’re doing a great job training that dog.
Your and you’re have different definitions, different spellings, but the same pronunciation. In other words, they’re homophones. This is the perfect recipe to cause confusion when trying to write and differentiate these words. We’re going to teach you what these two words mean and when to use them correctly so that you’re never in doubt about your spelling abilities ever again.
Let’s Start With “Your”
Your is used to show possession.
Your hair looks lovely today.
I hope your day goes well.
When is your next available appointment?
Remember, possessive adjectives, like its, are not spelled with an apostrophe.
You’re Getting It, Right?
You’re is the contracted form of you are.
You’re right, it’s cold outside.
This is why you’re at the top of the class.
You’re never going to believe what happened.
If ever you’re in doubt about which word to use, replace the word in question with you are. If the sentence still makes sense, you’ve got it right!
Your Christmas decorations look great. ≠ You are Christmas decorations look great.
You’re going to the show, right? = You are going to the show, right?
Your explanation was helpful. ≠ You are explanation was helpful.
There’s no way you’re buying that. = There’s no way you are buying that.
Imagine one day you want to catch up with a friend, so you message her asking “what’s on your mind?” If she answers, “your dinner,” be delighted that she may be treating you to some food soon. On the other hand, if she replies, “you’re dinner,” maybe it’s best to steer clear from her for a bit.
Summary
Your and you’re are just two of many words that are easy to mix up. If in doubt, remember to replace the word with you are to make sure the sentence makes sense. If you’re still unsure when or how to use these words, use LanguageTool’s editor to check your text. Not only will it correct these words and others, but it’ll also correct your grammar and recommend stylistic improvements.
