still possessed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "still possessed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that continues to have ownership or control over a person or object, often in a context related to feelings, emotions, or supernatural elements. Example: "Despite the passage of time, she felt that she was still possessed by the memories of her childhood."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She still possessed the mental fever that acted on me like a love charm.

The New Yorker

Warm and pleasant, the euphoria brought about by the day still possessed her.

The New Yorker

Although Goodwin records several instances of slights and putdowns, Franklin still possessed considerable clout.

The Guardian - Books

The aging Muzzey still possessed the Confederate sword Scott had picked up at Fredericksburg, and now returned it to him.

The New York Times

She was a dark grayish-brown, weighed about a hundred pounds, and still possessed her original features, including belly hair.

The New Yorker

After the shooting ends, Marie, still possessed by her character's visions, abandons her career and heads for Jerusalem.

The New Yorker

There were the UN weapons inspectors, who couldn't find out what illegal munitions and agents Iraq still possessed.

The Economist

American sailors, "mostly good natured if somewhat bored, still possessed the attractive shine of all things American".

The New Yorker

The bone was small in size, but it still possessed some of the advanced morphological features of tyrannosaurids.

Encyclopedia Britannica

She said he had "maybe a couple of wrinkles more in the face," but still possessed the "same professional decorum".

The New York Times

After the first gulf war, Western governments stated that Iraq still possessed an estimated 25 Scud missiles.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "still possessed" in descriptive writing, consider the connotations of "possession", which can range from simple ownership to being controlled by an external force or emotion.

Common error

Avoid using "still possessed" when a simpler term like "still owned" or "still had" would suffice, especially in contexts where the idea of being 'possessed' might be misleading or inappropriate. The term carries weight and should be used deliberately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "still possessed" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to indicate the continuation of ownership, control, or influence over something or someone. Ludwig shows it’s often used to emphasize that something has not been lost or relinquished.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "still possessed" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase that indicates the continuation of ownership, control, or influence. According to Ludwig, it is commonly found in news and media, scientific articles, and encyclopedias, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While alternatives like "continues to have" and "retains" exist, "still possessed" carries a unique connotation that emphasizes the enduring nature of the possession. When writing, it's crucial to consider the weight and depth this phrase adds, ensuring it accurately reflects the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continues to have

Focuses on the ongoing nature of having something.

remains in possession of

Emphasizes the legal or formal aspect of possessing something.

continues to be influenced by

Highlights the ongoing effect or control something has.

retains

A more concise way of saying "keeps possessing".

has not relinquished

Implies a deliberate choice to keep something.

is still under the influence of

Specifically indicates an ongoing effect or control.

persists in having

Highlights the persistence or continuation of possession.

maintains ownership of

Focuses on the aspect of owning something.

carries on having

Suggests carrying forward the possession.

endures with

Implies that despite potential challenges, the possession remains.

FAQs

How can I use "still possessed" in a sentence?

You can use "still possessed" to describe something or someone that continues to have a quality, item, or characteristic. For example, "The aging boxer "still possessed" incredible strength" or "Even after all these years, she felt she was "still possessed" by the memory of that day".

What are some alternatives to "still possessed"?

Alternatives to "still possessed" include "continues to have", "remains in possession of", or "retains". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "still possessed" or "still owns"?

Both "still possessed" and "still owns" are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Still owns" implies simple ownership, while "still possessed" can suggest a deeper, more impactful connection or control. Choose the phrase that best fits the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "still possessed" and "still influenced by"?

"Still possessed" implies holding something, which could be a quality, object, or even a spirit, while "still influenced by" indicates that something continues to affect someone or something. For example, "She "still possessed" her youthful energy", versus "She was "still influenced by" her mentor's advice".