Go tos vs. Go to’s – Which is Correct?
When deciding between “go tos” and “go to’s,” the correct plural form for the noun meaning a preferred choice or reliable option is typically go-tos (hyphenated). While go tos (unhyphenated) is often seen and acceptable in informal contexts, go to’s with an apostrophe is generally incorrect for pluralization, as apostrophes usually indicate possession or a contraction.
Go tos or Go to’s – Which is Correct?
The distinction between “go tos” and “go to’s” primarily revolves around proper pluralization and the correct use of the apostrophe. The term “go-to” functions as a compound adjective (e.g., “my go-to coffee shop”) or a compound noun (e.g., “these are my go-tos for comfort food”). When forming the plural of the noun, the standard and most formally accepted spelling is go-tos, adding an ‘s’ to the end of the hyphenated compound.
The unhyphenated go tos is also frequently used, particularly in casual writing and online, and is widely understood. However, go to’s is almost always an error when attempting to form a plural. The apostrophe in “go to’s” incorrectly suggests either a possessive form (e.g., “the go-to’s recommendation”) or a contraction (e.g., “go to is”), neither of which applies when simply making the noun plural. This common mistake often stems from confusion about apostrophe rules.
The Best Trick to Remember the Difference
To remember the difference, apply the “No Apostrophe for Plurals” rule. An apostrophe (‘s) is used for possession (e.g., “the cat’s toy”) or contractions (e.g., “it’s cold”). It is generally not used to make a regular noun plural. Think of other plural nouns like “books,” “ideas,” or “friends”—none of them use an apostrophe. Since you are referring to multiple “go-to” items or people, you simply add an ‘s’ to the end of the word, resulting in “go-tos” (or “go tos”). If you wouldn’t write “book’s” for multiple books, don’t write “go to’s” for multiple go-tos.
| Word/Phrase | Status | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| go tos | Acceptable (unhyphenated plural) | Multiple preferred choices or reliable options | These recipes are my go tos for busy weeknights. |
| go-tos | Correct & Standard (hyphenated plural) | Multiple preferred choices or reliable options | My go-tos for travel gear are always durable and lightweight. |
| go to’s | Incorrect (misuse of apostrophe) | Misspelling of the plural noun | Incorrect: The team’s go to’s are always reliable. |
How to Use Go tos (and Go-tos)
The phrase “go-to” (or “go to” when unhyphenated) functions as both an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it describes something that is regularly used or relied upon (e.g., “a go-to resource”). As a noun, it refers to a person, thing, or place that is a habitual or preferred choice. When using it as a plural noun, the standard form is go-tos, though go tos is also widely accepted, particularly in informal writing. Both forms convey the same meaning: multiple reliable or preferred options.
Example 1: For quick problem-solving, Maya’s technical guides are my absolute go-tos.
Example 2: When I’m feeling down, classic comedies are my go tos for a mood boost.
Example 3: The restaurant listed its top five go-tos for popular appetizers on the menu.
Etymology of the word Go tos
The term “go-to” originated in the mid-20th century, emerging from the verb phrase “go to,” meaning “to resort to” or “to refer to.” It gained traction as an adjective first, describing something that is habitually consulted or relied upon. Over time, it evolved into a noun, referring to the person or thing itself that serves as a reliable option. The hyphenated form became common to indicate its compound nature, distinguishing it from the simple verb phrase “go to.” The plural “go-tos” follows standard English rules for pluralizing compound nouns by adding ‘s’ to the end.
Related Concepts
Understanding a few broader grammatical concepts can help clarify why “go tos” and “go-tos” are correct and “go to’s” is not.
- Apostrophe Usage: Apostrophes have two primary functions in English: to indicate possession (e.g., “John’s car,” “the company’s policy”) and to form contractions (e.g., “it’s” for “it is,” “don’t” for “do not”). They are almost never used to simply make a noun plural. Misapplying the apostrophe for pluralization (known as a “greengrocer’s apostrophe”) is a common grammatical error.
- Compound Nouns and Adjectives: A compound word is formed by combining two or more words. “Go-to” is a compound. When used as an adjective (e.g., “a go-to person”), it is typically hyphenated. When it functions as a noun (e.g., “my go-to”), its plural is formed by adding ‘s’ to the end, resulting in “go-tos.”
Examples from Media and Literature
- “For many writers, a particular dictionary or style guide becomes one of their essential go-tos for clarifying usage.” (General observation in writing guides)
- “The chef’s list of regional suppliers included his favorite go-tos for fresh, organic produce.” (Food blog commentary)
- “When faced with a complex coding challenge, experienced developers often have a mental library of algorithmic go-tos.” (Technical article)
- “In times of stress, comfort food and classic movies are often people’s reliable go-tos.” (Psychology article)
- “The band’s setlist always included a few fan go-tos that guaranteed a lively crowd reaction.” (Music review)
Go tos Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Staples | Essential or principal items. |
| Mainstays | Chief supports or sources of strength. |
| Favorites | Things or people preferred above all others. |
| Reliables | Things or people that can be consistently depended on. |
| Standards | Things that are usual or customary. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Should “go-to” always be hyphenated?
As an adjective (e.g., “a go-to strategy”), “go-to” should almost always be hyphenated. As a noun, “go-to” is typically hyphenated in its singular form and its plural “go-tos.” While the unhyphenated “go to” as a noun (and “go tos” as its plural) is common in informal contexts, the hyphenated form is generally preferred in formal writing.
Question 2: Can “go-to” be used as an adjective and a noun?
Yes, “go-to” is versatile. It can describe something (adjective: “my go-to meal”) or refer to the thing itself (noun: “that meal is one of my go-tos”).
Question 3: What’s the difference between “go-to” and “goto”?
“Go-to” (hyphenated) refers to a preferred or reliable choice. “Goto” (unhyphenated and often lowercase) is primarily a programming command used in various coding languages to transfer control to a different part of a program. They are distinct in meaning and usage.
Conclusion
In summary, when referring to multiple preferred choices or reliable options, the standard and most formally correct plural is go-tos. The unhyphenated go tos is also acceptable in many contexts, especially informal ones. However, go to’s, with an apostrophe, is a common grammatical error, as apostrophes are not used to form simple plurals in English. Remembering that apostrophes are for possession or contractions, not for pluralization, is key to using this term correctly.
Pro Tip: Mastering apostrophe usage, especially for plurals, significantly enhances your written credibility. Avoiding common errors like “go to’s” ensures your communication is perceived as professional and precise.
