Possessive s with companies?

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
1

Hi, how does the use of the possessive s in connection with companies sound to you? For example:

“Sophisticated and successful web entrepreneurs don’t use Microsoft’s products.”

I mean, the alternatives would be

products by Microsoft or Microsoft products

So, is it a question of style and formality?[YSaerTTEW443543]

TOEIC listening, photographs: A doctor’s surgery[YSaerTTEW443543]

2

Hi Torsten

This is just my gut feeling:

Using the possessive (Microsoft’s products) seems to focus things a little bit on Microsoft (the company). Therefore there’s an indirect criticism of Microsoft itself.

Using Microsoft as an adjective seems to focus things more on the products (particular brand). The criticism is more focused on the products.

As I said, though, that’s just a gut reaction.

Others may disagree. :wink:

Amy

3

Hi Torsten, Amy.

I would agree with Amy: Use the company name as an adjective, unless you want to comment specifically on the company.