As the clock strikes midnight and fireworks light up the sky, a familiar phrase fills the air: "Happy New Year!" But wait—what’s this about apostrophes? Is it really just a simple greeting, or is there more to unravel in our language as we celebrate new beginnings?
Let’s start with the basics. When you wish someone well for the upcoming year, you say "Happy New Year." This phrase stands alone without an apostrophe because you’re celebrating that specific occasion—the arrival of a brand-new year. It’s straightforward and joyful; no need for extra punctuation here.
Now, let’s delve into where things can get tricky. The term "New Year’s" comes into play when discussing events associated with this holiday—like New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day. Here, the apostrophe signifies possession: it’s literally referring to “the day of” or “the eve of” that particular new year. So when you’re talking about resolutions made on January 1st or parties held on December 31st, using "New Year’s" is correct.
For example:
- New Year’s Eve refers to December 31st.
- New Year’s Day refers to January 1st.
- You might even mention your New Year’s resolutions, which are those promises we make (and sometimes break) at the start of each year!
But what about saying "Happy New Years?" Well, that’s simply incorrect—it implies multiple years are being celebrated simultaneously! Since only one new year arrives at a time, stick with singular forms: Happy New Year!
In casual conversation and social media posts during this festive season, you’ll often see people wishing others happiness as they transition from one calendar page to another. And while capitalization rules can be confusing in English—where greetings like ‘happy birthday’ become ‘Happy Birthday!’—remember that only ‘new’ remains lowercase when not directly referencing festivities.
So next time you’re raising your glass or typing out good wishes online as confetti falls around you, keep these little grammar nuggets in mind. Whether it be friends gathered together on New Year’s Eve sharing laughter and memories or family brunching on January 1st planning their goals ahead—you’ll know exactly how to express those warm sentiments correctly.