There or Their
Which is Correct?
Confused between "there" and "their"? Learn the difference, meaning, and how to use each properly in your writing.
Incorrect: There (when you mean "their")
"There" refers to a place or position, not possession. Using "there" when you mean "their" is a common mistake.
Correct: Their
"Their" is the possessive form, used to show ownership by a group of people.
Definitions
There (adverb/pronoun):
In, at, or to that place or position; used to introduce a sentence or clause.
Examples:
- • The book is over there.
- • There is a problem with the car.
- • She went there yesterday.
Their (possessive adjective):
Belonging to or associated with the people or things previously mentioned or easily identified.
Examples:
- • That is their house.
- • The students finished their homework.
- • I like their idea.
Synonyms
There:
- • In that place
- • At that location
- • Over there
Their:
- • Belonging to them
- • Of theirs
- • Associated with them
Notes
Notes:
- • There refers to a place or introduces a sentence; their shows possession.
- • If you can replace the word with "belonging to them", use "their".
- • Mixing these up is a very common mistake in English writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I use "there"?
A: Use "there" to refer to a place or to introduce a sentence, as in "there is a cat".
Q: When should I use "their"?
A: Use "their" to show possession, as in "their car" or "their idea".
Q: Is "there" ever possessive?
A: No, "there" is never possessive. "Their" is the possessive form.
Q: How can I check if I'm using the right word?
A: Try replacing the word with "belonging to them". If the sentence still makes sense, use "their".
Summary
Remember: There refers to a place or introduces a sentence, while their shows possession. If you can say "belonging to them", use "their". Don't mix them up!