What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ownership
Example
The ownership of the house was transferred to the new owner. [ownership: noun]
Example
She took pride in her ownership of the family business. [ownership: noun]
Example
He claimed ownership of the car after paying for it in full. [ownership: noun]
possession
Example
He was in possession of the stolen goods when he was caught. [possession: noun]
Example
She took possession of the keys to the apartment. [possession: noun]
Example
They possessed a vast collection of antique furniture. [possessed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Possession is more commonly used than ownership in everyday language. Ownership is often used in legal or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ownership and possession?
Ownership is more formal than possession. It is often used in legal or business contexts, while possession is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
