What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
proprietor
Example
The proprietor of the restaurant greeted us at the door. [proprietor: noun]
Example
He is the proprietor of the patent for that invention. [proprietor: noun]
possessor
Example
She is the possessor of a rare book collection. [possessor: noun]
Example
He is the possessor of great knowledge in the field of science. [possessor: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Possessor is more commonly used than proprietor in everyday language. Possessor is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while proprietor is less common and has a more specific usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between proprietor and possessor?
Proprietor has a more formal and professional connotation, while possessor is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.