What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
possession
Example
The car is my possession. [possession: noun]
Example
He was in possession of the stolen goods. [possession: noun]
Example
She possessed a great talent for singing. [possessed: verb]
occupation
Example
Her occupation is a doctor. [occupation: noun]
Example
I am occupied with writing my thesis. [occupied: verb]
Example
He found occupation as a teacher. [occupation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Occupation is more commonly used than possession in everyday language. Occupation is a common term used to describe a person's work or profession, while possession is less commonly used and often reserved for legal or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between possession and occupation?
Possession is often used in legal or formal contexts, while occupation is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.