Jones’s or Jones’?
Jones’s is the standard singular plural for the term Jones, stipulated by the Chicago Manual of Styles e.g, Mrs. Jones’s cooking is always a hit at our family gatherings. Also Jones’ is another singular plural for the term Jones and guided by the AP stylebook. E.g., Mr Jones’ kids are always full of energy and enthusiasm.
| Form | Example |
| Singular | Jones |
| Plural | Joneses |
| Singular possessive | Jones’s/ Jones’ |
| Plural possessive | Joneses’ |
Singular: Mr. Jones is my neighbor, and he’s always ready to lend a helping hand.
Plural: The Joneses are hosting a block party this weekend; everyone is invited.
Singular possessive: Mr Jones’ cat is known for its playful antics in the neighborhood.
Singular possessive: Have you met Sally Jones’s parents? They are lovely people.
Plural possessive: The Joneses are hosting a block party this weekend; everyone is invited.
From the above you can see that there are two possessive forms for the term Jones. One of them is formed by adding an apostrophe to Jones while the other one is formed by adding an apostrophe and an ‘s’.
The standard plural is Joneses. You will use Joneses when you’re talking about more than one person named Jones. For example, if you are talking about Mr and Mrs Jones then you will say “The Joneses.”
- The Joneses and their extended family always gather for a festive Thanksgiving celebration.
- Every summer, the Joneses and their friends go on a camping trip to reconnect.
We have looked at the different forms for the term Jonese. However, to avoid making mistakes in future, we have provided more examples and details for each form below.
Jones’s
Jones’s is the standard singular possessive form for Jones. It is the most commonly used form of the two from the 1990s and you can use it when you are referring to something that belongs to a person named Jones.
When you are following the Chicago manual of style, use Jones’s.
- Jones’s family has been living in the neighborhood for generations.
- Jones’s dog is known for its friendly nature.
- I borrowed Mr. Jones’s lawn mower for the weekend.
- Jones’s new car is a sleek and modern addition to the driveway.
- I appreciate Mrs. Jones’s dedication to her children’s education.
- Jones’s housewarming party was a great opportunity to meet the neighbors.
Sometimes, you will notice that the s is removed from the term Jones’s when the next word starts with an ‘s’. This is acceptable by both the Chicago anual of style and the Associated press Stylebook.
Jones’
Jones’ is another singular possessive form for Jones. It is guided by the Associated Press style book. Even though it’s not as popular as Jones’s, it’s grammatically correct and you can use it. Just maintain consistency in the document you are editing.
- Have you seen Mr. Jones’ new swimming pool? It’s impressive!
- Mr. Jones‘ kids are always full of energy and enthusiasm.
- Jones‘ holiday decorations are the talk of the town. (when Jones is the first name)
- Mr. and Mrs. Jones’ parenting style is both loving and supportive.
Joneses’
The term Joneses’ is the plural possessive form for Jones. The apostrophe shows that something belongs to the Joneses. You can use it when you are talking about something owned by Mr and Mrs Jones or if you are referring to something that belongs to more than one person named Jones.
- I attended the Joneses’ anniversary celebration last night.
- The Joneses’ decision to renovate their kitchen was a wise one.
- I received an invitation to the Joneses’ barbecue next weekend.
- The Joneses’ friends are planning a surprise party for their anniversary.
If Jones is the last name is then you will typically add “the”
