The word company’s is the singular possessive version of company. For instance, “The company’s dedication to innovation is evident in its products.” Conversely, companies’ is the plural possessive, as in, “The companies’ collaborative efforts led to industry advancements.” Additionally, the word companies is the standard plural form of company.
The chart below outlines the different versions of the word company, with the plural formed by adding “-ies” due to the ending “y.”
| Form | Example |
| Singular | Company |
| Plural | Companies |
| Singular Possessive | Company’s |
| Plural Possessive | Companies’ |
Here are examples of the four forms in context:
Singular: Working for a reputable company can enhance your career.
Plural: The companies in the tech sector often compete for talent.
Singular possessive: The company’s mission statement reflects its core values.
Plural possessive: The companies’ financial reports highlighted industry trends.
These examples show the difference between a single company and multiple companies possessing specific attributes.
Choosing the correct version of the word Company is important, as misuse can negatively affect your writing. Continue reading to learn more about using each form of the word company.
Company’s
The term company’s is the singular possessive form of company, indicating things that a single company owns or possesses.
The singular possessive is often used to describe specific aspects of a company or its characteristics. Examples include:
- The company’s commitment to sustainability is commendable.
- Our company’s headquarters boasts state-of-the-art facilities.
- The company’s emphasis on employee well-being fosters a positive work environment.
Moreover, the singular possessive can extend to non-physical aspects of a company, such as its culture and values.
- The company’s culture promotes creativity and collaboration.
- The company’s values guide decision-making at all levels.
- The company’s reputation for integrity is crucial in business relationships.
In addition, the phrase company’s success can be used to emphasize a particular achievement or milestone within a single company.
- The launch of the new product marked the company’s success.
- The company’s success is attributed to its dedicated workforce.
Companies’
Companies’ is the plural possessive version of company, indicating that multiple companies possess or own something.
The plural possessive of company is commonly used when referring to shared characteristics among companies or attributes collectively owned by multiple companies.
- The companies’ joint research initiatives advanced the industry.
- Our industry association represents the companies’ interests.
- The companies’ commitment to diversity is evident in their hiring practices.
Moreover, it can be used to describe collaborative efforts or resources designed to benefit multiple companies.
- The companies’ alliance resulted in a groundbreaking partnership.
- The region invests in the companies’ infrastructure for mutual benefit.
- The companies’ shared vision drives industry progress.
Furthermore, the term companies’ innovations can also appear in plural form if referring to advancements or breakthroughs shared by more than one company.
- The companies’ innovations in renewable energy are transforming the sector.
- Collaborative projects showcase the companies’ innovations in technology.
Companies
Companies is the plural version of company, suitable for use in non-possessive sentences when referring to more than one company.
This plural form can be used in two ways:
- To indicate a specific number of companies:
- There are ten companies competing for the industry award.
- The conference attracted representatives from various companies.
- To refer to companies collectively:
- Companies contribute to economic growth in diverse sectors.
- Many companies prioritize corporate social responsibility.