How to Fix Microsoft Word Replacing Letters with Apostrophes
Question details
The user needs to prevent Microsoft Word from inappropriately altering words by inserting or modifying apostrophes during spell check and typing.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Typing standard text or running spell check in a document where words like "couldn't" are being improperly modified.
- Observed behavior
- Word unexpectedly changes certain words to incorrect forms containing inserted or altered apostrophes.
Determine whether this apostrophe issue is happening in one specific document, across all your Word documents, or in other Office applications like Excel and PowerPoint.
Disable AutoCorrect 'Replace text as you type'
Turn off the Word AutoCorrect feature that automatically replaces text as you type to prevent unwanted apostrophe insertions.
AutoCorrect is designed to fix common typos, but custom rules or aggressive default settings can sometimes trigger incorrect replacements, especially with punctuation.
Launch Microsoft Word, click on the 'File' tab in the top-left corner, and select 'Options' at the bottom of the menu.
In the Word Options dialog box, click on 'Proofing' in the left-hand navigation pane.
Click the 'AutoCorrect Options...' button located under the AutoCorrect options section.
On the AutoCorrect tab, uncheck the box next to 'Replace text as you type', then click 'OK' to save your changes.
Start Word in Safe Mode to Test Add-ins
Third-party add-ins can interfere with typing and spell checking. Safe Mode helps identify if an add-in is the root cause.
Run the Office Repair Tool
If the issue persists across all documents and Safe Mode doesn't help, repairing the Office installation can fix corrupted core files.
Use WPS Office to Avoid Word AutoCorrect Glitches
If Microsoft Word continues to struggle with formatting and text replacement issues, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a highly compatible, lightweight, and free alternative that flawlessly handles Word documents without frustrating glitches.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package.
- 2. Install the Software: Run the installer and follow the quick setup wizard to install WPS Office on your device.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing Word documents to continue working without apostrophe glitches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Word automatically change my quotes and apostrophes?
Word has an AutoFormat feature that changes straight quotes to smart (curly) quotes. If configured incorrectly, or if a grammar add-in interferes, it might place apostrophes improperly or alter entire words.
Can a corrupt document cause text replacement issues?
Yes, if a specific document's XML structure or internal styles are corrupted, text formatting and typing can behave erratically. Try copying the text into a brand new, blank document to see if the issue persists.
How do I restore a previous version of a Word document if it gets ruined?
If you have AutoSave enabled or use OneDrive, click on the document title at the top of the Word window and select 'Version History'. You can then browse and restore an earlier version of the document from before the apostrophe issue began.
