B2verb 2K

Possess

🇬🇧 UK /["/pəˈzes/","/pəˈzesɪz/","/pəˈzest/","/pəˈzesɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/pəˈzes/","/pəˈzesɪz/","/pəˈzest/","/pəˈzesɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Possess

to have or own something

In simple words: To own or have something.

Possess in a sentence

• He does not possess the required skills for the job.
• Only the owner can possess the property legally.
• It seems that the ancient artifact might possess magical qualities.
• You must not allow fear to possess your thoughts.
• She wished to possess knowledge that would change the world.

How to use Possess

Used when talking about ownership, either of physical items or abstract qualities. Avoid in overly informal contexts and opt for simpler synonyms like 'have' in casual speech.

Grammar pattern

possess + object

Memory hint

Think of 'possess' as 'possibility of owning'.

Related words

Collocations with Possess

• possess a skill
• possess knowledge
• possess property
• possess power
• possess a weapon

Synonyms for Possess

• own
• have
• hold
• retain
• belong

Opposites of Possess

• lack
• lose
• release

Common mistakes with Possess

• Confused with 'possessed' as a past participle.
• Used inappropriately with inanimate objects, instead of 'have'.
• Incorrectly formed the question, such as 'Do you possess a car?' instead of 'Do you have a car?'

Frequently asked questions about Possess

What does Possess mean?

To own or have something.

What is the definition of Possess?

to have or own something

How do you use Possess in a sentence?

He does not possess the required skills for the job.

Can you give another example of Possess?

Only the owner can possess the property legally.

What are synonyms for Possess?

Common alternatives include own, have, hold, retain, belong.

What is the opposite of Possess?

Opposite meanings include lack, lose, release.

What words go with Possess?

It commonly pairs with possess a skill, possess knowledge, possess property, possess power, possess a weapon.

What are common mistakes when using Possess?

Confused with 'possessed' as a past participle. Used inappropriately with inanimate objects, instead of 'have'. Incorrectly formed the question, such as 'Do you possess a car?' instead of 'Do you have a car?'

How do you pronounce Possess?

US: /["/pəˈzes/","/pəˈzesɪz/","/pəˈzest/","/pəˈzesɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/pəˈzes/","/pəˈzesɪz/","/pəˈzest/","/pəˈzesɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Possess?

Used when talking about ownership, either of physical items or abstract qualities. Avoid in overly informal contexts and opt for simpler synonyms like 'have' in casual speech.

What CEFR level is Possess?

"Possess" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.