Possessive and inanimate objects

Question

Is it "correct" to use the possessive with inanimate objects?If so, would you please give me a few examples?What about "the table's leg" or should I say "the table leg"?Thank you.

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

Did you follow those links I gave you in your other post on this topic? You might find some answers there.

teal limeIs it "correct" to use the possessive with inanimate objects?

You can do it. It's appropriate in some cases, but not exactly elegant in others. In these matters it's seldom a matter of correct or incorrect. It's a matter of better or worse.

It's OK with periods of time. two hours' work, five days' bed rest, a week's pay, tomorrow's meeting

And with amounts of money. five dollars' worth of ham

You'll be understood if you say the table's leg, and a lot of people think that's just fine, at least in casual conversation. But the leg of the table or the table leg might be better in more formal writing and speech.

CJ

Possessive and inanimate objects

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