Which one is correct ¨Carlos´s book ¨ or ¨Carlos´ book ¨?

1 Answer
Jun 16, 2016

My understanding is that either could be considered technically correct but that, in this case, "Carlos' book" would generally be preferred.

Explanation:

This is an issue that comes up continually.

I believe, at one time, British and American usage rules differed.

Modern usage seems to be based on pronunciation. Following an "s", the "'s" is pronounced as "es". If you can easily say (without splitting on your audience) "es" after the name, then write "'s"; otherwise use only the apostrophe.

#color(white)("XXX")#Charles' book
but
#color(white)("XXX")#Hess's book
(at least based on how I would say these).

I would find "Carloses" difficult to say, so I would use "Carlos'"