What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
possessive
Example
He was so possessive of his girlfriend that he wouldn't let her talk to other guys. [possessive: adjective]
Example
The apostrophe in 'John's car' indicates the possessive form. [possessive: noun]
grasping
Example
The grasping CEO only cared about making more money, even if it meant hurting his employees. [grasping: adjective]
Example
She was grasping onto the railing as she climbed up the stairs. [grasping: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Possessive is a more common word than grasping and is used in a wider range of contexts. Grasping is less common and may be more appropriate in informal settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between possessive and grasping?
Possessive is a more versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while grasping is less common and may be more appropriate in informal settings.
