Grammar Geek, Reporting for Duty

Y'all.

I want to write about something that drives me krazy. And let me tell you, that is a short trip, if you know what I mean.

Now, just in case you are wondering, this post is not about you. (Unless you do this. Then it's you.) But don't take it personal. (Ironic that I use my country voice in a grammar post, isn't it?) I'm sure it's just because you don't know any better.

I see this on Facebook all the time. Even from teachers. And it makes those itty bitty hairs on the back of my neck stand at attention. And makes me want to say, "No, she didn't!" (Check out the intentional use of the fragments there. Stylin'!)

I'm talking about your and you're.

Y'all, they are two different words! That mean two different things! Really!

Your shows possession. This is your purse. Keep your grubby hands off my chocolate.

You're is a contraction of the two words you are. You're going to be tired of grammar when I get finished. But you're not going to make this mistake again, right?

I saw a sign hanging from some apartments that read, "Welcome to you're new home."

I almost drove off the road. If I'd had time, I would have stopped at the office and informed the management of the mistake. Shame on the sign-maker's shop for not asking if that's what they really wanted to say!

Your = possession.

You're = you are.

For your information and you're welcome.