The word author’s is the singular possessive form of author. E.g., “The author’s latest book is a bestseller.” Furthermore, authors’ is the plural possessive form. E.g., “The authors’ conference was well attended.” Also, authors is the standard plural of author. E.g., “The authors collaborated on a new series.”
The following chart provides a summary of the different forms of author.
| Form | Example Sentence |
| Singular | Author |
| Plural | Authors |
| Singular possessive | Author’s |
| Plural possessive | Authors’ |
You can make the plural form by adding an “s” to author.
Furthermore, you can make the singular possessive by inserting an apostrophe and an “s” after author. In comparison, the plural possessive is made by adding an apostrophe to the end of authors.
In the following examples, you can see the different forms of the word author in context:
- Singular: The author gave a lecture at the university.
- Plural: The authors signed books for their fans.
- Singular possessive: The author’s style is unique and engaging.
- Plural possessive: The authors’ manuscripts were reviewed by the editor.
The difference between the singular and plural possessives is that we are talking about one author in the singular possessive sentence. However, in the plural possessive sentence, we are talking about something that belongs to multiple authors.
Now you have learned the basics of how to use the possessive forms of author. However, you should keep reading so you can learn more about each form and how to use them.
Author’s
The word author’s is the singular possessive of the word author. Therefore, you use it when you want to say that something belongs to one author.
You can mention things that are a physical part of an author or part of their work.
- The author’s name was printed on the cover.
- Our author’s presentation was very insightful.
Authors’
The word authors’ is the plural possessive of author. Therefore, you use it when you want to indicate that something belongs to multiple authors.
The plural possessive can refer to physical objects owned by authors, as well as things like ideas or contributions.
- The authors’ research papers were published in the journal.
- Someone compiled the authors’ feedback into the final report.
Furthermore, the term authors’ can also refer to events or spaces explicitly designed for authors, as well as periods of time that authors spend together.
- The authors’ panel discussion was a highlight of the event.
- They organized an authors’ retreat to foster creativity.
Authors
The term authors is the standard plural of the word author. Therefore, you use it when you want to talk about more than one author in non-possessive sentences.
You can use the plural version to mention a specific number of authors.
- Five authors were shortlisted for the prize.
Also, you can use it to refer to all authors in a general sense.
- Authors often draw inspiration from personal experiences.
