we possess

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we possess" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating ownership or having something, whether it be physical items, qualities, or abstract concepts. Example: "In our organization, we possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that sets us apart from our competitors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

We possess existential authority.

The Guardian

What can we possess?

The New York Times - Arts

Today, we possess the means to end this reliance".

The Guardian - Business

We possess 20 altogether and Berlin alone has 19.

The Guardian - Sport

"With the resources and quality we possess we're underachieving".

The Guardian - Sport

We possess multiple selves that are aroused by different circumstances.

The New Yorker

"Finally the inevitable ennui set in, just as it does with clothes we possess.

The New York Times

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

The New Yorker

We've been digging around in our deks to see what records we possess.

The New Yorker

We possess the technology – right now – to speed up the transition to 100% clean energy use.

The Guardian - Opinion

Having children is just one reason to value what we possess.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we possess" when you want to convey a sense of formality or emphasize ownership or capability, especially in professional or academic contexts. Consider alternatives like "we have" in more casual writing.

Common error

Avoid using "we possess" in casual conversations or informal writing where a simpler alternative like "we have" would sound more natural. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we possess" functions primarily as a declarative statement indicating ownership, capability, or the holding of certain attributes. Ludwig shows various examples where "we possess" is used to assert the availability of resources, skills, or knowledge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we possess" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that conveys ownership, capability, or the holding of certain attributes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is best suited for neutral to formal contexts, such as news articles, scientific papers, or business communications. While alternatives like "we have" or "we own" may be more appropriate for informal settings, "we possess" lends a sense of authority and sophistication to your writing. Be mindful of the context and audience when choosing between "we possess" and its simpler alternatives to ensure clarity and effectiveness in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we have

A simpler and more common way of saying "we possess", indicating ownership or existence.

we own

Directly indicates ownership of something.

we hold

Replaces "possess" with "hold", indicating ownership or control.

we are in possession of

A more formal and emphatic way of stating possession.

we are equipped with

Highlights the availability of resources or tools.

we retain

Implies keeping or maintaining something already owned.

we maintain

Focuses on upholding or preserving something.

we command

Suggests control or authority over something.

we feature

Highlights a particular attribute or characteristic.

we boast

Emphasizes pride in possessing something.

FAQs

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

You can use "we possess" to indicate ownership or capability, as in "We possess the skills necessary to complete the project successfully" or "We possess a deep understanding of the market trends".

What can I say instead of "we possess"?

You can use alternatives like "we have", "we own", or "we hold", depending on the context. /s/we+have is generally more common in everyday language.

Is it better to say "we possess" or "we have"?

It depends on the context. "We possess" is more formal and emphasizes ownership or capability, while "we have" is more common and suitable for informal situations. Choose the phrase that best fits the tone and audience of your writing.

What is the difference between "we possess" and "we are in possession of"?

"We possess" is a direct and concise way of stating ownership. "We are in possession of" is more formal and emphatic, often used in legal or official contexts to highlight the state of having something.