The Correct Way to Ask: What’s Today’s Date or What’s Date of Today?
When it comes to asking about the current date, which phrase is correct: “What’s todays date” or “what’s date of today”? In this article, we will explore the correct usage and the reasons behind it, ensuring your queries are both grammatically correct and easily understood.
Introduction to Grammar Rules
In English, the use of possessive forms with certain phrases can be tricky. Generally, possessive forms are used with living things or things that can be personified. However, there are exceptions to these rules, especially when discussing time-related phrases.
Correct Phrasing: "What's Today's Date"
The correct phrase to use is “What’s today’s date”. This phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in everyday conversation. For instance, if you want to know what the current date is, you would naturally ask:
“What’s today’s date?”
Why "What’s Date of Today" is Incorrect
The phrase “what’s date of today” is not grammatically correct as it lacks clarity and shows a lack of proper construction. It is missing the article “the” between “what’s” and “date,” which is necessary for grammatical correctness. The correct form, as mentioned earlier, is:
“What’s the date today?”
Addition of the word “the” helps in making the phrase more precise and understandable. Omitting it can lead to confusion or misinterpretation.
Other Time-Related Phrases
In similar fashion, when referring to the current time, you would also use the possessive form. For example, you could ask:
“What’s today’s time?”
Other time-related phrases follow the same pattern, such as:
“What day is today?”
“What time is it?”
Exception to the Rule: Personalization
It's worth noting that there are instances where the possessive form is not used. For example, when you're referring to someone's birthday or anniversary, you would typically say:
“What’s his day?”
“What’s her date?”
but for regular days or dates, the possessive form with “today” is correct.
Conclusion
Understanding and using the correct phrases involving time-related queries not only enhances communication but also ensures you are following proper grammar rules. Whether you are asking about today’s date, time, or day, the correct phrasing is crucial for clarity and professionalism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the correct phrase to ask if I want to know today's date?
A: The correct phrase is “What’s today’s date.”
Q: Why is “What’s date of today” incorrect?
A: “What’s date of today” is incorrect because it lacks the article “the” and is therefore grammatically imprecise. The correct form is “What’s the date today?”
Q: Can the possessive form be used for non-living things other than time?
A: Generally, the possessive form is used for living things or personified phrases. For non-living things, such as objects or events, the possessive form is not typically used unless the object is being personified.