The Rule
- it’s = it is (contraction, 缩写)
- its = possession (物主代词，“它的”)
Examples
✅ Correct Usage
- “It’s a sunny day.” (It is a sunny day)
- “The company increased its revenue.” (公司的收入)
- “It’s been a long week.” (It has been…)
- “The dog wagged its tail.” (狗摇了摇它的尾巴)
❌ Common Mistakes
| ❌ Wrong | ✅ Correct | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Its a sunny day | It’s a sunny day | Need contraction |
| The company increased it’s revenue | The company increased its revenue | Need possession |
Memory Trick
Quick test: Can you replace it with “it is”?
- ✅ Yes → Use it’s
- ❌ No → Use its
Examples:
- “It’s/Its a nice day” → “It is a nice day” ✅ → It’s
- “The cat licked it’s/its paw” → “The cat licked it is paw” ❌ → its
Practice
Fill in the blanks:
- The company announced ___ new product today.
- ___ been a long time since we met.
- The tree lost ___ leaves in autumn.
- ___ important to check your work.
Answers: 1. its, 2. It’s, 3. its, 4. It’s