English grammar: Possessive adjectives

What this grammar point covers

Possessive adjectives are words we use in English to show that something belongs to someone or something.

When to use it

Use possessive adjectives before a noun to show who owns or has something. For example, to talk about your book, his car, or their house.

Key forms

• my
• your
• his
• her
• its
• our
• their

Examples

Tips

• Possessive adjectives always come before the noun.
• Do not use 's with possessive adjectives (say 'my book', not 'my's book').
• Remember: 'its' (possessive) is not the same as 'it's' (it is).