Contractions

A contraction results from letters being left out from the original word or phrase, such as you’re for you are or it’s for it is.

Following our conversational approach, it’s acceptable to use contractions in almost all content types. Just don’t get carried away. Too many contractions in a sentence can make it difficult to read. Remember to use common contractions to minimize the impact on translation.

Keep in mind

Stay consistent – don’t switch between contractions and their spelled-out equivalents in body copy or UI text.

Avoid negative contractions (can’t, don't, wouldn't, and shouldn't) whenever possible. Try to rewrite your sentence to align with our helpful approach that puts the focus on solutions, not problems.

Avoid contractions in content that deals with legal concerns (for example, agreements or privacy policies) or in formal corporate communications such as press releases and annual reports.

Never contract a noun with is, does, has, or was as this can make it look like the noun is possessive.

Your model's ready to view

Your model is ready to view

Don’t use awkward, uncommon, or colloquial contractions (there’d, should’ve, or y'all).

  • Table of contents