As we transition into the next chapter of the 21st century, the shorthand notation for the year 2024 sparks a linguistic and stylistic debate: Is it ’24 or 24?
So, Is It ‘24 or 24’ for 2024?
In everyday writing and digital communication, the abbreviated form ’24 is widely accepted and understood to denote the year 2024, especially when context provides clear indication.
For example:
Informal Context:
In casual settings or when the context is clear, using “’24” is common and widely understood.
Example: “The reunion for the Class of ’24 is set for next June.”
Here, “’24” easily implies the year 2024, especially within the context of school or university reunions.
Formal or Ambiguous Contexts:
For formal documents or situations where the year could be misinterpreted, the full form “2024” is preferable.
Example: “The academic curriculum for the Class of 2024 will incorporate new interdisciplinary courses.”
In this case, specifying “2024” avoids any potential confusion, making it clear that it refers to the year 2024.
Here’s How to Abbreviate Decades
Abbreviating decades correctly involves a simple yet specific format. Here’s a guide to help you do it right:
Use Numerals: Always start with the numerals representing the decade. For example, for the 1990s, you would start with “90”.
Apostrophe for Omission: Use an apostrophe at the beginning to indicate the omission of the century. So, for the 1990s, it becomes ’90.
Add an “s” for Plural: To signify the entire decade, add an “s” at the end without an apostrophe. So, the correct abbreviation for the 1990s is ’90s.
Examples:
The roaring twenties are often stylized as the ’20s, highlighting a decade of significant cultural and economic change.
The ’80s are well-known for the rise of digital technology and vibrant pop culture.
People often reminisce about the ’90s, a decade marked by technological advancements and diverse music scenes.
Remember, the apostrophe is crucial for indicating the omission of the century, and the “s” at the end is always lowercase to signify the plural form of the decade.