Many words in English are commonly confused by both those learning the language and native speakers alike. Two such words are “your” and “you’re”. These words are commonly confused as they are pronounced the same. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the difference between “your” and “you’re” and how to use them correctly in a sentence when speaking or writing.
Check out other easily confused words in English by visiting this page. Teachers and students can download this guide as a PDF file using the link at the bottom of the page.
Your
“Your” is a possessive adjective that indicates ownership or belonging. It is used to describe something that belongs to the person or people you are speaking to. For example, “Your car is parked in the driveway,” or “Your dog is so cute!” In these examples, the car and the dog belong to the person you are speaking to.
How to use “your” in a sentence:
- Is this your book?
- Did you find your keys?
- What’s your favourite food?
- I love your outfit!
- Please don’t forget your appointment.
- Your family must be proud of you.
You’re
“You’re” is a contraction of “you are”. It contains a subject (“you”) and a verb (“are”). This combination can be used to add a description to the subject (using a complement), to create the continuous tense (including the future tense with “going to”), or (less commonly) to form the passive voice. For example, “You’re the best thing that has happened to me,” “You’re really starting to annoy me,” or “If you’re being chased by a bear, you’re advised to play dead.”
How to use “you’re” in a sentence:
- You’re going to love this movie.
- Why do you think you’re so tired today?
- You’re the reason I smile every day.
- Do you know what you’re doing tonight?
- I hope you’re feeling better soon.
- You’re the only one who can make me laugh like that.
Why are “your” and “you’re” commonly confused?
The words “your” and “you’re” are commonly confused because as homophones, they sound alike when spoken. This can make it difficult to remember which one to use in writing.
Summary
your – a possessive adjective that indicates ownership or belonging
you’re – a contraction of “you are”
Do you know the difference between “your” and “you’re”?
Fill in the blanks in the following activity with the correct form of the word (“your” or “you’re”):
- I can’t believe _____ going to Paris.
- _____ hair looks great today.
- _____ car is blocking the driveway.
- _____ the best friend anyone could ask for.
- _____ going to regret that decision.
- Is _____ dog friendly?
- _____ favourite colour is blue.
- Can I borrow _____ phone charger?
- _____ always there for me.
- _____ such a kind and thoughtful person.
Answers: 1. you’re, 2. Your, 3. Your, 4. You’re, 5. You’re, 6. your, 7. Your, 8. your, 9. You’re, 10. You’re
