1009. If you think apostrophes are confusing today, wait until you hear how people used them 100s of years ago! Ammon Shea has some wild stories. Plus, should you use "first," "second," and "third" or "firstly," "secondly," and "thirdly"?

Ammon Shea is the author of "Bad English," "Reading the OED."

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Apostrophes have always been confusing. 'First' or 'firstly'? Trudy! 15:54 Share

Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing

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Apostrophes have always been confusing. 'First' or 'firstly'? Trudy!