possess abilities

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of a sentence "possess abilities" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's aptitude, skill or proficiency. For example, "She possesses remarkable abilities when it comes to problem-solving."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

If he can also free himself after being tied in ropes and bound in a straitjacket, while dangling upside down 30 feet above Times Square, he might even possess abilities well out of the ordinary.

The New York Times - Arts

I'm sure they believe they possess abilities to communicate with the dead and tap into people's lives.

Vice

Introduction of SCT coding sequence into the genome of m8Δ could generate novel therapeutic VVs, which possess abilities to both lyse tumor cells and activate tumor-specific CTLs.

BioMed Research International

It has been proved that terminally differentiated mature adipocytes possess abilities to dedifferentiate into fibroblast-like progeny cells with self-renewal and multiple differentiation, termed dedifferentiated fat (DFAT) cells.

BioMed Research International

To validate the notion that pairing undergraduate and graduate students represented a truly heterogeneous pairing (that is, do the graduate students really possess abilities different from those of the undergraduate students?), we surveyed students on their research experiences and previous molecular biology lab experiences.

CBE Life Sciences Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The genes of those species who are stronger get propagated in the evolution chain since they possess ability to reproduce even better species in future generations.

Robotics and Biomimetics

Besides promoting the generation of Tregs with high suppressive potential, MSCs possess ability to expand Tregs.

BioMed Research International

He also possesses ability with the ball at his feet to bring others into play with simple distribution.

The New York Times

Atmospheric infrared sounder (AIRS) possesses ability to observe vertical water vapor structure.

Earth, Planets and Space

All tested samples possessed ability to inhibit LOX.

BioMed Research International

Dietary PA possesses ability to bind minerals, toxic trace elements, proteins and, thus, to influence their solubility, absorption, and digestibility.

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's inherent qualities or potential, "possess abilities" can add a formal tone. In less formal contexts, consider using "have abilities" or more specific synonyms.

Common error

Avoid using "possess abilities" in casual writing. It can sound stilted. Opt for more natural phrasing like "can do" or "are good at" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possess abilities" functions as a verb phrase where "possess" is a transitive verb and "abilities" is its direct object. It indicates the capacity or skill set that a subject inherently has. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "possess abilities" is grammatically correct, but relatively rare. According to Ludwig AI, it can be used to describe someone's aptitude, skill, or proficiency. While acceptable in various contexts, it tends to be more formal, appearing most frequently in scientific and news-related articles. Alternative phrases like "have capabilities" or "demonstrate skills" might be more suitable for less formal writing. When using "possess abilities", consider the context and desired tone to ensure it aligns with your overall message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have capabilities

Focuses on the capacity to perform specific tasks.

exhibit talents

Emphasizes natural aptitudes and skills.

demonstrate skills

Highlights the active display of abilities.

display prowess

Implies exceptional skill or expertise.

show competence

Indicates a satisfactory level of skill or knowledge.

command expertise

Suggests a high level of knowledge and skill in a specific area.

wield capabilities

Highlights the effective application of skills.

own aptitudes

Emphasizes possession of a natural inclination or talent.

are endowed with gifts

Suggests a natural and inherent talent or ability.

are equipped with skills

Focuses on the preparation and training that lead to abilities.

FAQs

What does "possess abilities" mean?

The phrase "possess abilities" means to have skills, talents, or capabilities. It suggests ownership of certain qualities that enable someone to perform tasks effectively.

How to use "possess abilities" in a sentence?

Use "possess abilities" to describe someone or something that has skills or capabilities. For instance, "She possesses remarkable abilities when it comes to problem-solving."

What can I say instead of "possess abilities"?

You can use alternatives like "have capabilities", "demonstrate skills", or "exhibit talents" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "possess abilities"?

It's appropriate to use "possess abilities" in formal writing or when you want to emphasize the inherent qualities or potential of someone or something. In less formal contexts, simpler phrases may be preferred.