Definition
The possessive case pronoun is used to show ownership. While a possessive adjective may modify a noun, a possessive pronoun replaces the adjective and the noun with a single word.
Look at the following example:
Possessive pronouns allow you to reduce repetition and wordiness in your sentences.
Possessive case pronouns include the following:
| 1st Person | 2nd Person | 3rd Person | |
| Singular: | mine | yours | his, hers, its |
| Plural: | ours | yours | theirs |
Unlike subjective and objective case pronouns which can perform only specific functions, possessive case pronouns can be used in both subject and object positions:
The key to identifying possessive case pronouns is remembering that the pronoun has replaced the noun:
My room » mine
Her shoes » hers
Their reasons » theirs
Always use the possessive adjective before a gerund. A gerund is a verbal noun ending in -ing.
Examples:
- Mom doesn't like your calling me so late.
- The professor resented his leaving early.
