possess magic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possess magic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing someone or something that has magical abilities or qualities. Example: "The ancient artifact was said to possess magic, granting its holder extraordinary powers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The sacred relic inside was thought to possess magic powers.

The Guardian - Arts

To be clear, the labyrinth is known to possess magic.

The New Yorker

If Lemieux is expected to possess magic in the postseason, he also is expected to create it with his linemates.

The New York Times - Sports

For that matter, the blurring of the lines between class and race makes for the movie's silliest, most emblematic premise: the rich are different, because they possess magic — and the creatures who deploy that magic get to do so because they're, um, brighter than the rest.

The New Yorker

The story of the game revolves around "Remnants", mysterious and coveted ancient artifacts of varying shapes and sizes which possess magic powers and have been the cause of several wars throughout the game's history.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

A man arrested for possessing magic mushrooms has provided an aptly ecstatic mug shot for police.

Independent

Troll, in early Scandinavian folklore, giant, monstrous being, sometimes possessing magic powers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After a brief rest he proceeded to take on his weirdest partner, the wealthy Marquise d'Urfe, an alchemist and all-round loon who became convinced that Casanova possessed magic powers that would help her realize her dream: to be reborn as a man.

The New York Times - Books

It's almost as though The Street were mesmerized into thinking that these academicians and the traders who followed them possessed magic black boxes.

Forbes

This idea, which runs counter to real-world experience, seems to have mesmerized Wall Street at its highest levels into thinking that these academicians and the traders who followed them possessed magic black boxes.

Forbes

I know that in Tanzania and some other African countries albinos and their albino body parts are regarded as possessing magic powers -- their use can help in magic cures.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about magical abilities, consider the specific nuance you want to convey. "Possess magic" emphasizes the inherent ownership of magical qualities, while other phrases like "wield magic" or "channel magic" highlight the active use of those abilities.

Common error

Avoid using "possess magic" when describing actions; it's about inherent qualities. Instead of "He possessed magic to heal", try "He used magic to heal" or "He wielded magic to heal".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possess magic" functions as a verb phrase where "possess" acts as a transitive verb taking "magic" as its direct object. It indicates the inherent ownership or endowment of magical abilities. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and appropriate in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "possess magic" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe something or someone inherently having magical abilities. Ludwig AI analysis shows it appears mostly in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While not the most frequent way to express this idea, it provides a distinct nuance emphasizing ownership. Be mindful of context; avoid using it for actions, focusing instead on inherent qualities. Alternatives include "have magical powers" or "wield magic".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have magical powers

Replaces "possess magic" with a more common synonym, emphasizing the presence of magical abilities.

wield magic

Focuses on the ability to control and use magic, rather than simply possessing it.

hold magic

Suggests a containment or stewardship of magic.

contain magic

Implies that magic is an inherent part of something.

be imbued with magic

Highlights the act of being filled or permeated with magic.

be gifted with magic

Emphasizes the idea of receiving magic as a gift or blessing.

exude magic

Suggests that magic emanates or radiates from something.

radiate magic

Similar to 'exude magic', emphasizing outward projection of magical energy.

channel magic

Focuses on acting as a conduit or pathway for magical energy.

command magic

Highlights the ability to control and direct magic.

FAQs

What does it mean to "possess magic"?

To "possess magic" means to inherently have magical abilities or qualities as a fundamental attribute. It suggests an innate ownership of magical power.

What are some synonyms for "possess magic"?

Alternatives include "have magical powers", "wield magic", or "contain magic", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

How do I use "possess magic" in a sentence?

Use "possess magic" to describe a character, object, or place that inherently has magical capabilities. For example, "The amulet was said to possess magic, granting its wearer protection."

Is it correct to say "possessed of magic" instead of "possess magic"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "possess magic" is the more common and straightforward phrasing. "Possessed of magic" is a more formal or archaic construction.