Remember this!
The present tense form of 'possess' is possess or possesses. Example: She possesses a unique talent for singing. (She possesses a unique talent for singing.)
Definition of “possess”
- to have or own something
- to hold or occupy a particular position, quality, or characteristic
- to be affected or dominated by a feeling or emotion
Tense sentence structure and examples:
Notes from a Native English Speaker
Here are the general structures of a present and past participle. Remember, some verbs have an irregular form and may not follow this structure: Present Participle: [Verb] -ing Past Participle: [Verb] -ed
| Present Simple | possess |
| Present Continuous | possessing |
| Present Perfect | possessed |
Example
He possesses a great sense of humor.
Example
They possess the necessary qualifications for the job.
Example
I am possessing a strong work ethic.
Example
They are possessing valuable information about the topic.
Example
She has possessed excellent leadership skills for many years.
Example
They have possessed a positive attitude throughout the project.
possess Subject-Verb Agreement
Notes from a Native English Speaker
Subject-verb agreement means that a subject and its verb match. They’re either both plural or both singular. A singular subject takes a singular verb. - Example: The cat is sleeping. A plural subject takes a plural verb. - Example: The cats are sleeping.
| Singular First Person (I) | possess |
| Singular Second Person (You) | possess |
| Singular Third Person (He/She/It) | possesses |
| Plural (We/You/They) | possess |
Example
I possess a vast knowledge of history.
Example
You possess excellent communication skills.
Example
He possesses a great deal of experience.
Example
She possesses a unique talent.
Example
It possesses certain characteristics.
Example
We possess the necessary resources.
Example
You possess valuable information.
Example
They possess strong leadership skills.
