possess values

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'possess values' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to values that a person or group believes in and lives by, such as ethical principles. For example, "Each member of the organization is committed to possessing and upholding the values that define us."

✓ Grammatically correct

People and their attributes

Ethical considerations

Cultural values

Technical specifications

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

People are polite and possess values of patience and respect for other cultures.

The Guardian - Opinion

Does it possess values worth cheering despite its self-imposed limitations?

The Washington Post

If you believe in God and religious tenets, you possess values other than total reliance on the power of intellect.

The New York Times

The paper defines trust as believing that a person(s) or organization(s) can be relied upon to accomplish objectives because they are competent and possess values and intentions that are consistent with all or part of the public.

Energy Research & Social Science

The oxidation induction times should decrease during accelerated ageing so that the residual stabilities should possess values from the range <0;1>; the value 1 corresponds to the unaged sample and the value 0 for the sample exhibiting no stability after the ageing.

Heritage Science

The same national security concerns have bolstered a class of self-proclaimed terrorism experts who decry Islam as an evil religion of terrorists and routinely brand Muslims as primitive, vengeful, duplicitous, and belligerent people who oppress women and gays, and possess values that are irreconcilable with "western Judeo-Christian civilization".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Performance goals motivate us to show others that we possess valued attributes, such as intelligence and social skill, and to prove to ourselves that we have them.

Harvard Business Review

B. Esp. in the jurists, to receive or possess value, become valid: testamentum, Dig. 29, 1, 33: donatio, ib. 24, 1, 33: libertas servo data, ib. 28, 7, 20.

Harvard University

Abstract: There is a widespread intuition that acts displaying "spontaneity" possess value at least in part by having this quality.

Duke University

About 80% samples experienced higher value and only 20% samples possess value < 50 mg/L.

Applied Water Science

According to some scholars, Plato's view that the forms possess value as objects of desire gives rise to a problem in his metaphysics: how can forms of injustice and ugliness be considered desirable?

Johns Hopkins University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "possess values", ensure the sentence clearly specifies which values are being referenced, providing context for better understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "possess values" without specifying which values are being referred to. Statements such as "they possess good values" are vague. Instead, list the specific values like "honesty", "integrity", and "respect".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possess values" functions as a verb phrase where "possess" is a transitive verb and "values" is its direct object. It describes the state of having or holding certain principles or beliefs. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Unknown

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "possess values" is a grammatically sound way to describe having certain principles or beliefs. As Ludwig AI indicates, the expression is correct and usable in English, with the caveat that clarity is key. To enhance comprehension, specify the values being referenced, rather than using general terms like "good values". Common alternatives include "hold values", "embrace values" and "uphold values", each with slight nuances. While the expression is reasonably common in news, academic, and scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uphold values

Emphasizes actively supporting and defending values, rather than simply having them.

hold dear values

Highlights the importance and emotional attachment to certain values.

embrace values

Suggests a willing and enthusiastic adoption of particular values.

exhibit values

Focuses on demonstrating values through actions and behavior.

demonstrate values

Similar to "exhibit values", emphasizing the outward expression of values.

live by values

Implies that values are the guiding principles of one's life.

adhere to values

Stresses a strict and consistent commitment to certain values.

maintain values

Focuses on preserving values over time, often in the face of challenges.

share values

Highlights the communal aspect of values, implying that they are held in common with others.

espouse values

Suggests a formal and public endorsement of particular values.

FAQs

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

You can use "possess values" to describe individuals, groups, or organizations that hold particular beliefs or principles. For example, "The company seeks employees who "uphold values" such as integrity and teamwork."

What is a synonym for "possess values"?

Alternatives to "possess values" include "hold values", "embrace values", or "adhere to values". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "possess good values"?

While grammatically correct, "possess good values" is vague. It's more effective to specify the particular values, such as "possess strong moral principles" or "demonstrate ethical standards". This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

What's the difference between "possess values" and "demonstrate values"?

"Possess values" indicates that someone has certain values, while "demonstrate values" implies they act in accordance with those values. Someone can possess values without always demonstrating them, and vice versa.