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AAA.1 Learn how to form contractions

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What are contractions?

Contractions are words made by joining two words together and using an apostrophe to show where letters are missing.

Examples:
  • do not → don’t
  • I will → I’ll
  • you are → you’re
Note

When reading, remember that contractions make sentences sound shorter and more natural in everyday speech.

How do contractions work?

A contraction is formed when two words are combined, and the missing letters are replaced with an apostrophe.

Steps:
  • Take the two words: she is
  • Remove the letter “i” → she’s
  • Add an apostrophe where the missing letter belongs
Note

The apostrophe does not go at the end of the word; it goes exactly where the letters are left out.

Common contractions in everyday English

These are contractions you will often see in books, conversations, and writing.

Contraction List:
  • cannot → can’t
  • will not → won’t
  • it is → it’s
  • he is → he’s
  • she is → she’s
  • we are → we’re
  • they are → they’re
Note

Some contractions do not follow regular patterns, such as will notwon’t. Pay close attention to these exceptions.

Contractions in sentences

Using contractions in full sentences helps you understand how they fit naturally into writing and speech.

Examples:
  • “He is my friend.” → “He’s my friend.”
  • “We are going to the park.” → “We’re going to the park.”
  • “It is sunny today.” → “It’s sunny today.”
Note

If the sentence still makes sense when you use the contraction, you are using it correctly.

Tips for using contractions

Contractions are useful in informal writing and speaking, but they may not always be the best choice for formal writing.

Tips:
  • Use contractions in friendly letters, stories, and conversations.
  • Avoid contractions in formal essays, reports, or school projects unless your teacher allows them.
  • Always double-check that your contraction has the apostrophe in the correct place.
Note

Remember: contractions make writing sound more like the way people talk.