both possess

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "both possess" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that two subjects have or own something in common. Example: "Both possess unique qualities that make them stand out in their respective fields."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Both possess splendid, fearless short games.

The New York Times - Sports

Both possess talent but life is rarely that straightforward.

The Guardian - Sport

Both possess charming smiles, the kind that make fast friends.

The New York Times - Sports

They have fought three major wars against each other, and both possess nuclear weapons.

The New York Times

Both possess a gift for melodies, but they use them as means to different ends.

The New York Times - Arts

Both possess the ability to make random acts of violence curiously attractive.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This was topped up by an additional £56 each during placements, because they both possess NVQ level 3 qualifications.

The Guardian

Both possess the significant advantage of avoiding a constitutional amendment that President Putin seems reluctant to bless.

The New York Times

5) The Warrens have been called to investigate the force because they both possess unique special powers.

The Guardian - Film

Males and females both possess two glands that open between the eye and ear.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Both possess a quantum property known as "spin" that can be flipped from pointing up to pointing down.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "both possess" when you want to emphasize a shared attribute or quality between two subjects in a formal or somewhat elevated tone. It is particularly effective in analytical or comparative writing.

Common error

While "both possess" is grammatically correct, avoid overusing it in informal contexts where simpler alternatives like "both have" would sound more natural. Using "both possess" repeatedly in casual conversation can sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "both possess" functions as a linking phrase, indicating that two distinct subjects share a common attribute, characteristic, or quality. This phrase commonly introduces a shared property, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "both possess" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote shared qualities or attributes between two subjects. As Ludwig AI highlights, its usage spans across various contexts from scientific literature to news articles, although it maintains a relatively formal tone. When writing, be sure to use "both possess" when you want to underscore a commonality, but be mindful of the tone, opting for simpler phrases like "both have" in more informal settings. Remember to consider the context of your writing and the desired level of formality when choosing between "both possess" and its alternatives. The phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they both have

This is a more informal and common alternative, using "have" instead of "possess".

both share

This suggests a commonality that might not necessarily be ownership but rather a shared characteristic.

they jointly own

This highlights the joint nature of the ownership.

each owns

This emphasizes individual ownership rather than a collective one implied by "both".

each is in possession of

A more formal way of saying each owns/has.

both are endowed with

This phrase suggests a natural or inherent quality rather than something acquired.

they are both equipped with

This implies that the subjects have been given the characteristic or tool.

they both feature

This highlights a characteristic.

they both include

This highlight a component as part of something else.

they are both characterized by

Highlights a feature as a distinctive trait.

FAQs

How can I use "both possess" in a sentence?

Use "both possess" to indicate that two subjects share a particular attribute, quality, or item. For example, "The paintings both possess a unique artistic style".

What are some alternatives to "both possess"?

You can use alternatives like "they both have", "both share", or "each owns" depending on the context.

Is there a difference in formality between "both possess" and "both have"?

"Both possess" is generally considered more formal than "both have". Use "both possess" in situations where a more elevated or analytical tone is appropriate, and "both have" in more casual settings.

When should I use "both possess" instead of "each possess"?

Use "both possess" when you want to emphasize the shared characteristic or attribute of two subjects as a collective. Use "each possess" when you want to highlight the individual ownership or attribute of each subject separately.