Monday Grammar Minute: Their, There, and They're

If you’ve ever paused while typing to ask yourself, “Which one is it?”—you’re not alone! Their, there, and they're are among the most commonly confused words in the English language. The good news? They’re easy to remember once you know the difference.

There refers to a place or location.

Examples:

• The library is over there.
• There are so many great books to read!

 

Their shows ownership. If something belongs to someone, their is the word you need.

Examples:

• The authors submitted their manuscripts.
• The children put away their backpacks. 

 

They’re is a contraction of they are.

Examples:

• They’re excited to publish their first book.
• I think they’re going to love the final edits.

 

A Quick Trick to Remember

• There = Think here. Both refer to a place.
• Their = Contains the word heir, someone who inherits something (ownership).
• They’re = Simply replace it with they are. If the sentence still makes sense, you’ve got the right one!

 

Quick Quiz

Which sentence is correct?

A. Their going to meet us over there because they’re running late.
B. They’re going to meet us over there because they’re running late.

Answer: B!

Thanks for stopping by this week’s Monday Grammar Minute! I hope this quick tip helps make your writing just a little stronger.

Have a grammar question or a topic you’d like me to cover? Leave a comment below!

Be sure to stop back every Monday for another Monday Grammar Minute. Until then, keep reading, keep writing, and remember—even the best writers can benefit from a professional editor!