What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
occupancy
Example
The occupancy rate of the hotel was at 90% during the peak season. [occupancy: noun]
Example
The occupancy of the apartment will begin next month. [occupancy: noun]
possession
Example
He took possession of the ball and ran towards the goal. [possession: noun]
Example
She possessed a rare collection of antique books. [possessed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Possession is more commonly used than occupancy in everyday language. Possession is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while occupancy is less common and refers specifically to the use or inhabitation of a space.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between occupancy and possession?
Both occupancy and possession can be used in formal and informal contexts, but occupancy is more commonly used in formal contexts related to real estate or property management.