As a language expert with a deep understanding of English grammar and usage, I can provide a detailed explanation of the correct use of the word "ladies" in various contexts. The confusion often arises due to the intricacies of English pluralization and the use of possessive forms. Let's delve into the nuances of when to use "ladies" and when to use "ladies'".
Firstly, it's important to clarify that "men" is indeed the plural form of "man," and it does not require an apostrophe. However, "ladies" is a plural noun as well, but it is derived from the singular "lady." In English, there are instances where plural forms of nouns that end in 'y' drop the 'y' and add 'ies' to form the plural, such as "lady" becoming "ladies."
Now, when it comes to possessive forms in English, an apostrophe followed by an 's' is used to indicate possession. For example, "the lady's purse" means the purse that belongs to one lady. If we are talking about possession by multiple entities, the possessive form is typically made plural first and then the apostrophe is added. So, if we are referring to the purses belonging to more than one lady, we would correctly say "the ladies' purses."
The statement provided, "Men is already plural. Hence, there is no ambiguity with the men, and for the same reason no ambiguity with the ladies. Ladies is the plural form of lady, so the apostrophe goes to the right - ladies'," is partially correct. It is true that "ladies" is the plural form of "lady," but the placement of the apostrophe depends on whether we are indicating possession or not.
If we are simply referring to a group of women in the plural sense without indicating possession, we would use "ladies" without an apostrophe. However, if we are indicating that something belongs to the group of women, then we would use "ladies'" with the apostrophe after the 's' to show possession.
For example:
- "The ladies are waiting for the bus." (Here, "ladies" is used correctly as a plural noun without possession.)
- "The ladies' coats are hanging in the cloakroom." (Here, "ladies'" is used correctly to show possession, indicating the coats belong to the ladies.)
In conclusion, the use of "ladies" versus "ladies'" depends on whether you are using the word in a plural sense or a possessive sense. Understanding this distinction is crucial for using the word correctly in English sentences. It's always about context and the intended meaning you want to convey.

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You would not write mens', because there is no plural mens for more than one group of men. ... Men is already plural. Hence, there is no ambiguity with the men, and for the same reason no ambiguity with the ladies. Ladies is the plural form of lady, so the apostrophe goes to the right - ladies'.read more >>