Contractions

(see also Pronouns)

Contracting is the process of joining two or more words while omitting one or more letters to reduce the newly created word to a shorter word, usually of only one syllable. An apostrophe is inserted in the place of the omitted letter or letters. Using contractions produces a more informal, conversational style. However, overuse or forced use creates a distraction for the reader.

I amI'm
you areyou're
are notaren't
can notcan't
will notwon't
we willwe'll
it was'twas
of the clocko'clock
heavenheav'n
chapter will         chapter'll (awkward)

HR

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