A2noun2K

Possession

UK /["/pəˈzeʃn/"]/US /["/pəˈzeʃn/"]/

Definition

something that you own or have with you at a particular time

In simple words: Having something; ownership.

Examples

  • His possession of the rare painting made him very proud.
  • The law states that possession of stolen goods is a serious crime.
  • The team's possession of the ball was crucial for winning the match.
  • She felt a sense of possession over her own ideas and creativity.
  • During the game, possession changed frequently between the two teams.
  • His possession of the same book as her made them instant friends.
  • Having possession of your own home is a big achievement.

Usage notes

Used to indicate ownership. Suitable in both spoken and written contexts. In formal writing, you might say 'the possession of assets' versus in casual conversation, just 'my stuff.'

Grammar pattern

possession + of + object

Memory hint

Think of 'possess' like 'possessive' — someone who really wants to own something.

Collocations

  • family
  • personal
  • private
  • acquire
  • have
  • collect
  • exclusive
  • sole
  • illegal
  • gain
  • get
  • obtain
  • order
  • in possession of something
  • in your possession
  • in full possession of something

Synonyms

  • belongings

Antonyms

  • loss
  • absence
  • dispossession

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'possessions' as belongings only.
  • Using 'possession' incorrectly in plural forms.
  • Mixing up 'possessed' with 'possessions'.