"Own" vs. "possess": words behind having

Reviewed and edited by

Anwar Kareem 17/07/2025, 01:06

English.me team member

What is similar?

Both "own" and "possess" refer to having something as your property or under your control.

What is different?

"Own" is often used to emphasize legal ownership or personal belonging, and is more common in everyday speech. "Possess" is more formal, can refer to both tangible and intangible things (skills, qualities), and may imply control rather than official ownership.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for own) and possess

Examples of usage

Own

I own a car.
She owns a beautiful house by the lake.
They own several companies in the city.

Possess

He possesses great talent.
The museum possesses a rare painting.
She possesses a kind heart.