“Readers aid writer on Butchers Road punctuation in Canning Town, London.”
Responding to Linda Rhead’s query about the preferable phrasing of Butchers (Butcher’s/Butchers’) Road, the optimal choice isn’t the initial option due to Butchers being a plural noun, implying multiple butchers. As “road” follows the word, it functions as the noun, with Butcher’s/Butchers’ serving as an adjective to describe it. Therefore, the adjective includes the apostrophe to indicate ownership or association with the road.
Understanding the count of butchers is essential for accurate apostrophe usage. Was it a singular butcher or multiple butchers? Further research is necessary.
Linda Teague
Cowbridge, Glamorgan
Unless Butchers Road is confirmed as being owned by one or more butchers, Linda Rhead might consider excluding the apostrophe, assuming the name is descriptive rather than possessive, similar to names like Badgers Lane.
Peter Leach
Nercwys, Flintshire
In Colchester, my former residence where I still play a role in street names, they wisely choose to omit apostrophes, preventing misspellings.
Henry Spyvee
Guildford, Surrey
Perhaps Linda Rhead could send out three letters and await, akin to Elvis Presley, for two to return marked “return to sender, address unknown.” This might provide clarity.
Richard Harley
Alresford, Hampshire
David G Clark’s letter (22 November) discussing the enticing effect of a misplaced apostrophe on Guardian readers sheds new light on a notice I once spotted in a game dealer’s window on an October morning: “Peasant’s coming soon”.
Martin Brayne
Chinley, Derbyshire
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