secure possession of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "secure possession of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of obtaining or ensuring ownership or control over something. Example: "The company worked diligently to secure possession of the intellectual property rights before launching the new product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

It could secure possession of his papers and other articles incident to his private life — a seizure effected, if need be, by breaking and entry".

The New Yorker

If he determines the ball has arrived first, he then immediately shifts his eyes to the glove to make sure the fielder has secure possession of the ball.

The New York Times - Sports

It could secure possession of his papers and other articles incident to his private life a seizure effected, if need be, by breaking and entry".

The New Yorker

Conflict between Gloucester and the Woodville nobles who dominated Edward V soon led the duke to arrest the leaders of the Woodville party and secure possession of Edward and his younger brother.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His four sons contended with each other to secure possession of the European provinces, which had been little affected by the Mongol invasion, and to reunite the Ottoman dominions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But most of the time, he said, you use your eyes to determine two things — whether the fielder's and runner's feet touched the bag and did the fielder have secure possession of the ball — and your ears for a third: When did the ball arrive?

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

A spokesperson for Wandsworth explains that the council was "likely to support" the introduction of measures to "robustly discourage squatting and ensure that, in those rare instances where it does happen, the owners are able to re-secure possession of the property with the absolute minimum of delay".

The Guardian

In September 1156 Henry secured possession of the Duchy of Bavaria Austriaa was subsequently separated from Bavaria and was given to Henry Jasomirgott and elevated into its own duchy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Gloucester championed the barons who had surrendered at Kenilworth in November and December 1266 and, after putting his demands before the king, secured possession of London (April 1267).

Encyclopedia Britannica

These are briefly the facts in regard to securing possession of this important position on the 2d of July last, which are more fully set forth in the official reports of that battle.

The New York Times

Through this disguise he was admitted as Charmades into the harbour of the Sanii and secured possession of it.

University of Chicago

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "secure possession of", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being secured and why it's important. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "secure possession of" excessively in passive constructions, as this can make your writing sound weak. Opt for active voice to emphasize who is securing the possession.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "secure possession of" functions primarily as a verbal phrase, indicating an action aimed at ensuring or obtaining control over something. It typically involves effort or strategy. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in describing both physical and abstract control, from securing physical territories to guaranteeing rights.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Academia

14%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "secure possession of" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of obtaining or ensuring control over something. According to Ludwig, while relatively uncommon, it appears across diverse contexts from news to encyclopedias. To enhance writing, focus on active voice and clarity. Be mindful of related phrases like "obtain control of" and "guarantee ownership of" to add variety and precision to your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obtain control of

Emphasizes the act of gaining control, focusing less on the security aspect.

acquire control of

Similar to "obtain control of", but emphasizes the process of acquiring.

ensure control of

Focuses on guaranteeing control, rather than the initial act of obtaining it.

gain ownership of

Specifically refers to acquiring ownership rights, which may not always be the primary focus of the original phrase.

establish control over

Highlights the establishment of control, suggesting a more formal or lasting arrangement.

guarantee ownership of

Focuses on making ownership certain, emphasizing legal or formal aspects.

take hold of

Implies a more physical or immediate act of grasping or seizing.

lock down possession of

Adds a sense of finality and protection to the act of securing possession.

wrest control of

Implies a struggle or effort in gaining control, adding a layer of conflict.

seize control of

Suggests a forceful or sudden acquisition of control.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "secure possession of" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives such as "establish control over" or "guarantee ownership of", depending on the specific context.

What verbs commonly precede "possession of"?

Verbs like "secure", "gain", "obtain", "acquire", and "take" are frequently used before "possession of" to describe the act of obtaining or having something.

Is there a difference between "secure possession of" and "take possession of"?

"Secure possession of" implies ensuring continued control or ownership, while "take possession of" often refers to the initial act of gaining control or ownership.

Can "secure possession of" be used in both legal and non-legal contexts?

Yes, "secure possession of" can be used in various contexts. In legal contexts, it often refers to establishing legal ownership or control. In non-legal contexts, it can refer to ensuring control or access to something valuable or important.