"1930s" vs "1930's"

Question

"1930s" vs "1930's"

Both "1930's" and "1930s" can be correct, but they are used in different contexts. "1930's" is used to indicate possession or a contraction of the year, while "1930s" is used to refer to the decade. They are not directly comparable as they serve different purposes.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

Use "1930s" when referring to the decade, such as "The fashion of the 1930s" or "The music of the 1930s."

Examples:

The fashion of the 1930s was characterized by elegance and glamour.
I love the music from the 1930s.
The cars of the 1930s were true works of art.
The art of the 1930s reflected the tumultuous times.
The literature of the 1930s often explored social issues.

Alternatives:

The fashion of the 1930's was characterized by elegance and glamour.
I love the music from the 1930's.
The cars of the 1930's were true works of art.
The art of the 1930's reflected the tumultuous times.
The literature of the 1930's often explored social issues.

Use "1930's" when indicating possession, such as "The car from the 1930's," or as a contraction of the year, like "The music of the 1930's."

Examples:

The fashion of the 1930's was characterized by elegance and glamour.
I love the music from the 1930's.
The car from the 1930's was a classic beauty.
The art of the 1930's reflected the tumultuous times.
The literature of the 1930's often explored social issues.

Alternatives:

The fashion of the 1930s was characterized by elegance and glamour.
I love the music from the 1930s.
The car from the 1930s was a classic beauty.
The art of the 1930s reflected the tumultuous times.
The literature of the 1930s often explored social issues.

Answer 1

1930s

This form is correct when referring to the decade.

Answer 2

1930's

This construction is correct when indicating possession or as a contraction of the year.

"1930s" vs "1930's"

1930s

1930's

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