How Can I Avoid the Holiday Grammar Police?

May your holidays be merry and bright.

Love, The Johnson’s.

Anyone else get a physical or virtual holiday card like the above and cringe? Me, too!!

If you didn’t, here is what the hullaballoo is all about…that apostrophe.

Fun fact: In a holiday greeting, if your name does not end with an “s,” all you need to do is add one. Apostrophes should only be used to show ownership. If your name already ends in an “s” or “z,” simply add an “es.” For example, “Happy holidays from the Spearses” or “Happy holidays from the Martinezes.” Even better, you can avoid this grammar game altogether by simply saying “Happy holidays from the Martinez family” given there is no need for a pesky “s” at all.

Want to evade other run-ins with holiday grammar police like me over the next few weeks?

Here is a great rundown of common holiday grammar mistakes and how to avoid them.