Definition:
Its is a possessive adjective that is used to refer to belonging or associated with a thing that is understood in context.
Rules:
Its is used to refer to something that either belongs to the third person singular (he, she, or it) or is associated with it. It is also used to refer to something that is expected to be known or understood by the reader. In other words, its is used to signify things that are already refereed to in the context or sentence.
Examples:
a. Its tail was very long.
b. Its inhabitants are known for their kind nature.
c. Its beauty was unparalleled.
Tips:
Its, just like other possessive adjectives should NOT be used followed by other possessive adjectives. For example, one cannot use ‘its own’.
Definition:
Its is a possessive pronoun that is used to refer to something that belongs to a thing that is understood in context.
Rules:
Its is used to indicate possession of something by a third person singular subject (he, she, or it).It is generally used to replace a noun which has already been mentioned in the sentence or is understood in context.
Examples:
a. The car broke down and it had to leave its engine behind.
b. He went back to his home and gathered its belongings.
c. The bank kept its promise.
Tips:
Its should always be used to replace a noun that has been mentioned in the sentence or is understood in context and can never be used to replace a noun which serves the purpose of the subject of the sentence.