What is possess? Pronunciation and usage in English

possess means . Learn how to pronounce and use possess through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of possess

possessverb

/pəˈzɛs/
Definition & pronunciation of possess

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "possess" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcription and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

ˈpɒs.ɛs

2. Breakdown and Explanation:

  • ˈpɒs: This part is generally pretty straightforward.

    • ˈ (stress mark): Indicates that this syllable is the stressed syllable – it's the part that’s spoken with the most emphasis.
    • p: As in "pen" – a clear, aspirated "p" (a slight puff of air).
    • ɒ: This is a short, rounded "o" sound, like the "o" in "hot" or "lot." It’s often described as a diphthong, meaning it slides from one vowel sound to another.
    • s: As in "sun" – a simple, voiceless "s."

  • ɛs: This is where many people struggle.

    • ɛ: This is a mid-central vowel, similar to the "e" in "bed" or "met." It’s not as open as the "a" in "cat."
    • s: Again, as in "sun"—a simple, voiceless "s."

3. Putting it together – a step-by-step guide:

  1. Start with the "p" sound: "p" as in “pen.”
  2. Move to the “ɒ” sound: "ɒ" as in “hot”. Make sure your lips are rounded.
  3. Transition smoothly to the "ɛ" sound: This is the key. The sound glides from the "ɒ" to the "ɛ." Imagine saying "oh" and then quickly dropping your jaw a little to make the "e" sound. It's a subtle shift.
  4. Finish with the "s": "s" as in “sun.”

4. Tips and Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "pos-ess": The "ess" at the end is often dropped in American English pronunciation. However, in some British dialects, it’s pronounced.
  • The glide is crucial: Many people get stuck on the transition between the "ɒ" and "ɛ." This is the most common source of difficulty. Practice it slowly and repeatedly.
  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear how native speakers say it. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "possess" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/%C3%9B%C3%98%C5%A5/ – This website has pronunciations recorded by native speakers from various regions.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce possess" – you'll find many videos explaining the sound.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Where are you from (what’s your native language)? This can help me explain the differences in pronunciation.
  • What specifically are you finding difficult about pronouncing it? (e.g., the glide between the vowels, shortening the "ess")

Usage and examples with the word possess in English

Let's break down how to use the word "possess" in English. It's a bit more formal than words like "have" and carries a slightly stronger sense of ownership or control. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Basic Meaning: To Have Ownership

At its core, "possess" means to have or to own something. It implies a stronger sense of ownership than simply "have."

  • Example: "She possesses a beautiful antique necklace." (She owns it, it's hers.)
  • Example: "The company possesses valuable intellectual property." (They own the rights to something.)

2. Key Uses & Nuances

  • Formal Contexts: "Possess" is more common in formal writing, academic papers, legal documents, and official speeches. You’ll hear it more often than "have" in these situations.

  • Emphasis on Control & Right to Use: It suggests you not only have something, but you have the rightful, legal, or inherent right to use it.

  • Abstract Possessions: It's frequently used with intangible things:

    • Skills & Abilities: "He possesses remarkable talent as a musician." (He has a natural ability.)
    • Traits & Characteristics: "She possesses a strong sense of empathy." (She has a characteristic trait.)
    • Knowledge & Information: “The historian possesses extensive knowledge of the period.” (He has a great deal of information.)
    • Rights & Authority: "The king possessed absolute authority.” (He held supreme power.)

  • Legal/Official Contexts: “The government possesses the power to regulate commerce.”

3. Verb Forms & Grammar

  • Base Form: possess (e.g., "He possesses a car.")
  • Past Tense: possessed (e.g., "He possessed a car yesterday.")
  • Past Participle: possessed (used with auxiliary verbs like has, had) (e.g., "He has possessed a car for years.")
  • Present Participle: possessing (e.g., "She is possessing a valuable secret.")

4. Contrast with "Have"

Let’s see how "possess" differs from "have":

Feature Have Possess
Formality Informal Formal
Emphasis Simple ownership Ownership & right
Use with Abstract Often used More common
Example "I have a book." "He possesses wisdom."

5. Idiomatic Expressions

  • To possess someone: (often negative) To control or dominate someone emotionally or psychologically. "He seemed to possess her completely."

  • To possess something with: To have a thorough understanding of something. “He possesses a firm grasp with the topic.”

Examples in Sentences (showing variety):

  • "The museum possesses a vast collection of ancient artifacts."
  • “Scientists possess the tools to unlock the secrets of the universe."
  • "Did you possess the required documents for the application?"
  • “The defendant possessed the intent to commit the crime.” (Legal context)
  • “A true leader possesses integrity and vision.”

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., essay, email, creative writing, etc.)
  • Can you provide a sentence where you're considering using "possess"?

Synonyms for the word possess

Practice with vocabulary possess

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. A successful research proposal must ____________ clear objectives and a feasible methodology.
  2. It is crucial for negotiators to ____________ a deep understanding of cultural nuances.
  3. Companies that ____________ a strong ethical framework often attract and retain top talent.
  4. This department currently ____________ the implementation of new environmental policies.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which verb best describes the act of having a particular quality or attribute? a) achieve b) acquire c) possess d) obtain

  2. The ancient artifact is believed to ____________ mystical powers and historical significance. (Select all that apply.) a) hold b) contain c) embody d) possess

  3. To show or display a particular quality or feeling openly is to: a) manifest b) possess c) suppress d) conceal

  4. The CEO expects employees to ____________ the highest level of professionalism in their conduct. (Select all that apply.) a) exhibit b) maintain c) acquire d) possess

  5. After years of hard work, she finally managed to ____________ a leadership position within the company. a) occupy b) secure c) possess d) relinquish

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The rare manuscript has unique historical value.
    • Rewrite the sentence using "possess" or a related word form.
  2. Achieving critical thinking skills is essential for academic success.
    • Rewrite the sentence using "possess" or a related word form.
  3. It is important for a manager to secure their team's trust.
    • Rewrite the sentence using a suitable replacement word instead of "possess".

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. possess
  2. acquire
  3. possess
  4. oversees

Exercise 2:

  1. c) possess
  2. a) hold, b) contain, c) embody, d) possess
  3. a) manifest
  4. a) exhibit, b) maintain, d) possess
  5. a) occupy, b) secure

Exercise 3:

  1. The rare manuscript possesses unique historical value.
  2. Students who possess critical thinking skills often achieve academic success.
  3. It is important for a manager to gain their team's trust.

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