Many English learners get confused when they see words like “birthday parties or party’s”, or phrases such as “both parties” and “each party’s”.
These look similar, but their meanings are completely different. One refers to multiple events, while the other shows possession.
People often search this topic because apostrophe rules in English are tricky. A small mark (‘) can change the meaning of a sentence completely.
That’s why learners, students, and writers want a simple explanation that removes confusion.
According to the Cambridge Dictionary and Merriam-Webster, understanding plural and possessive forms is essential for correct writing.
In this guide, I will explain parties vs party’s, real examples, grammar rules, and when to use each form. You will also learn common mistakes, usage in daily life, and simple tips to avoid errors forever.
Quick Answer
- Parties = plural (more than one event/group)
- Party’s = possessive (belonging to one party)
Examples:
- We attended three birthday parties.
- The party’s theme was beautiful.
👉 Rule:
- No apostrophe = plural
- Apostrophe + s = ownership
The Origin of Parties or Party’s
The word party comes from Old French “partie”, meaning a group or division. Over time, English developed two forms:
- Parties → plural form (more than one group/event)
- Party’s → possessive form (something belonging to a party)
This distinction is part of modern rules in English Grammar.
British English vs American English Spelling
There is no difference in UK or US English for these forms.
| Form | UK English | US English | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| parties | Correct | Correct | plural form |
| party’s | Correct | Correct | possessive |
| parties’ | Correct | Correct | plural possessive |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- Academic writing → parties / party’s
- Emails → parties / party’s
- Formal documents → correct possessive use
- Social media → both used but context matters
👉 Always choose based on meaning, not region.
Common Mistakes with Parties or Party’s
❌ Using “party’s” for plural meaning
❌ Writing “parties” when showing ownership
❌ Confusing “each parties” instead of correct grammar
✔ Correct forms:
- birthday parties
- the party’s plan
- both parties agreed
- each party’s responsibility
Parties or Party’s in Everyday Examples
Events
- There were many birthday parties last weekend.
Possession
- The party’s invitation list was large.
Legal / Formal Use
- Both parties signed the agreement.
Business Writing
- Each party’s role is clearly defined.
Parties or Party’s – Google Trends & Usage
- Parties → High usage in events, politics, legal writing
- Party’s → Common in formal grammar contexts
- “Birthday parties” → very high search volume globally
People mostly search this topic due to confusion in apostrophe usage in English writing systems.
Comparison Table: Parties vs Party’s
| Feature | Parties | Party’s |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Plural | Possessive |
| Meaning | more than one party | belongs to a party |
| Example | birthday parties | party’s theme |
| Apostrophe | No | Yes |
| Usage | events/groups | ownership |
FAQs
1. Is “parties” correct English?
Yes, it is the correct plural form.
2. What does party’s mean?
It means something belongs to a party.
3. Can I use party’s for plural?
No, that is incorrect.
4. What is “both parties”?
It means two sides or groups involved.
5. What is correct: each parties or each party’s?
Correct: each party’s
6. What is plural of party?
Parties.
7. Is apostrophe needed for plural?
No, only for possession.
Conclusion
Understanding birthday parties or party’s becomes easy once you know the basic grammar rule.
“Parties” is always used when talking about more than one event or group, while “party’s” shows ownership or belonging.
This difference is part of standard English Grammar rules used in both British and American English.
Most learners get confused because apostrophes look small but change meaning completely.
Once you practice with examples like “both parties” and “each party’s responsibility,” the rule becomes clear.
Always double-check whether you need plural or possession before adding an apostrophe.
