that we possess

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that we possess" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is owned or held by a group of people, often in a context discussing attributes, qualities, or resources. Example: "The knowledge that we possess is crucial for the success of our project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This may be the most telling analysis of Julia Roberts that we possess.

The New Yorker

Most of us would like to think that we possess a "moral instinct".

The Guardian

Sexual pleasure is an "infinitely powerful weapon" and "the only weapon that we possess".

The New York Times - Books

Subjective probability theory provides such an account and is the simplest such account that we possess.

Princeton University

"They told me that we possess it, but don't own it," Mr. Disney said.

The New York Times

The number and complexity of the problems require that we possess technical instruments of verification.

Independent

"It's a struggle for the most basic civil right that we possess," the new mayor said on Feb. 16, 1994.

The New York Times

By that robust standard, most of the Churchill films that we possess, though dutiful, come across as doughy and sedate.

The New Yorker

Moreover, belief in angels is at 41% and the idea that we possess a soul stands at 70%.

The Guardian

So the earliest Gospel, though, that pulled together some of these things that we possess is the Gospel of Mark.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The real problem, however, is that Hutcheson just claims—hypothesizes that we possess a unique, original moral sense.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that we possess", ensure the context clearly defines 'we'. Ambiguity can arise if the group referred to is not explicitly stated or easily understood by the reader.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "that we possess" can sound overly formal in casual writing. Opt for the simpler "that we have" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that we possess" functions as a relative clause, specifically a defining relative clause, providing essential information about a noun phrase. It clarifies which particular thing or attribute is being referred to. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

31%

Science

27%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that we possess" is a grammatically sound and frequently used relative clause, primarily employed to specify and emphasize ownership or inherent qualities by a group. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. While versatile, it tends towards a neutral to formal register, with significant usage in news, academic, and scientific contexts. For a more informal tone, alternatives such as "that we have" may be more appropriate. Remember to clearly define 'we' to avoid ambiguity and prevent overuse in casual writing. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively utilize "that we possess" to enhance clarity and precision in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that we own

Focuses on the legal aspect of ownership rather than inherent qualities.

that we have

A simpler and more general way to express possession, suitable for various contexts.

that is ours

Emphasizes belonging and often implies a stronger emotional connection.

what we hold

Highlights the act of holding or maintaining something, suggesting stewardship.

at our disposal

Indicates something is available for use, emphasizing access and control.

that we control

Stresses the power or ability to manage or direct something.

that we are endowed with

Suggests a natural or inherent quality or ability, often divinely given.

that we are capable of

Shifts focus to abilities and potential rather than concrete possessions.

what we can access

Highlights accessibility and opportunity to utilize something.

that is available to us

Emphasizes availability and accessibility, often implying a resource.

FAQs

How can I use "that we possess" in a sentence?

The phrase "that we possess" introduces a relative clause specifying something owned or inherent to a group. For example, "The skills "that we possess" are invaluable to this project."

What can I say instead of "that we possess"?

You can use alternatives like "that we own", "that we have", or "what is ours" depending on the context and desired nuance.

Is it more formal to say "that we possess" or "that we have"?

"That we possess" is generally considered more formal than "that we have". The choice depends on the context and the intended tone of your writing.

When is it best to use "that we possess" over other alternatives?

Use "that we possess" when you want to emphasize ownership of a specific quality, skill, or resource, especially in formal or academic contexts. It highlights inherent qualities more than simply "that we have".