I'm frustrated. I have three or four solid topics to discuss with you all, but I can't stay focused long enough to write them. I apologize--the words just aren't coming this week. I'm having...what do you call it...word retrieval issues.
In the meantime, consider this:
Is it "writer's block" or "writers' block" or "writers block"? I could rationalize each apostrophe placement. "Writer's block" would mean the block belonging to a particular writer. Makes sense. But so does "writers' block," the block affecting many writers, or just "writers block," a phrase so common that the apostrophe has become obsolete.
I have the same issue with driver(')s(') license. And visitor(')s(') guide.
Your thoughts? Is there an official rule for this?
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5 comments:
Analyst,
There was a reason that I asked you to proof read my papers in college. You are quite possibly the most knowledgeable person I know when it comes to grammar, literature, punctuation, etc. etc. So, my answer to your question is "yes...I agree."
Hmmmm... 'tis a puzzler. But on a knee-jerk reaction, I'd have to go with "writer's block" and "driver's license." All three options can indeed be rationalized, but here are my thoughts:
1. Two or more drivers do not usually share a singular license. So if you were to go plural, wouldn't it be more accurate to say "drivers' licenses"? However, a group of writers can share a block, but it is more common for one writer to have his/her own block. Therefore, both options ("writer's" and "writers'") are correct. But I still like "writer's block" better. Let's face it--it just looks better.
2. On obsolete apostrophes: there are very few instances where the lack of an apostrophe doesn't make my grammar radar go off like crazy (i.e, Girls Night Out). That doesn't bother me. But, and I don't know why exactly, when I see "drivers license" or "writers block," I have a small panic attack.
i totally agree with "c-dub," as we often share the same grammatical viewpoints.
I concur wtih c-dub.
Another one I love two hate is homonymn abuse.
oh shoot, didn't proof that last comment...hate misspellings too.
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