Company vs. Companies – Which is Correct?
Understanding the difference between “company’s” and “companies” is essential for proper English usage. “Company’s” is the possessive form of “company,” indicating ownership, while “companies” is the plural form of “company.” This article explores the correct usage, forms, and etymology of each term, providing insights into when to use them appropriately.
company’s or companies – Which is Correct?
Both “company’s” and “companies” are correct but serve different grammatical functions. “Company’s” is the possessive form, meaning it shows that something belongs to a company. For example, one might say, “The company’s profits increased.” On the other hand, “companies” is a plural noun referring to more than one company. An example of its use would be, “There are many companies in the technology sector.”
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| company’s | Use when indicating possession of something by a company. | The company’s headquarters is located in New York. |
| companies | Use when referring to more than one company. | Several companies are competing for the same contract. |
How to Use company’s
“Company’s” should be used whenever you intend to show that something belongs to a single company. It is essential to use the apostrophe correctly to indicate possession.
Example 1: The company’s new policy was well-received by employees.
Example 2: I read about the company’s latest innovation in the news.
Example 3: The company’s annual report highlighted significant growth.
What are the different forms of company’s?
The term “company’s” does not have different forms in terms of tense, as it functions as a possessive noun. The context of usage will dictate how it is employed within sentences, such as when referring to various aspects associated with the company.
Etymology of the word company’s
The word “company” originates from the Latin “companio,” which translates to “one who eats bread with you.” Over time, it evolved in Old French to “compaignie,” referring to a group of people associated for a common purpose, eventually leading to the modern English term “company.”
How to Use companies
“Companies” is used when discussing multiple companies or entities. Make sure to use it in contexts where you refer to more than one.
Example 1: Many companies have implemented remote work policies.
Example 2: The companies involved in the merger have a long history of cooperation.
Example 3: Several companies announced new products this year.
What are the different forms of companies?
Similar to “company’s,” “companies” does not have multiple forms since it is a plural noun. It is simply used to refer to more than one company in a straightforward manner.
Etymology of the word companies
The term “companies” is the plural form of “company.” Its etymological roots trace back to the same Latin and French origins as “company,” emphasizing the notion of a group or collective entity.
Practice Exercises
- The __ headquarters is situated downtown.
- Several __ were present at the conference.
- Each __ mission is to innovate.
- Our new client is a multinational __.
- Two __ merged to expand their market reach.
Answer Key
- company’s
- companies
- company’s
- company
- companies
company’s Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| firm | a business organization that sells goods or services. |
| corporation | a legal entity that is separate from its owners. |
companies Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| businesses | companies engaged in commercial, industrial, or professional activities. |
| firms | commercial enterprises, especially in professional fields. |
Conclusion
In summary, it is vital to distinguish between “company’s” and “companies” to convey the intended meaning accurately. Each term has its unique role in the English language, emphasizing possession and plurality, respectively.
