Own vs. Possess

Attribute	Own	Possess
Legal Rights	Full legal rights	Temporary legal rights
Control	Complete control	Partial control
Responsibility	Full responsibility	Limited responsibility
Duration	Permanent	Temporary
Transferability	Can be transferred	Cannot be transferred

Definition

Own and possess are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have slightly different meanings. To own something means to have legal rights and control over it. Possess, on the other hand, simply means to have something in one's possession or to have it in one's control. While owning something implies a more permanent and legal relationship with the object, possessing something can be more temporary and informal.

Legal Implications

When you own something, you have legal rights to it. This means that you have the right to sell, transfer, or dispose of the object as you see fit. Ownership is often proven through legal documents such as deeds, titles, or contracts. Possession, on the other hand, does not necessarily imply legal ownership. You can possess something without actually owning it, such as borrowing a friend's car for the weekend.

Responsibilities

When you own something, you are responsible for its upkeep, maintenance, and any liabilities associated with it. For example, if you own a house, you are responsible for paying property taxes, insurance, and repairs. Possession, on the other hand, may not come with the same level of responsibility. If you possess something temporarily, you may not be responsible for its long-term care or maintenance.

Emotional Attachment

Ownership often comes with a sense of emotional attachment to the object. When you own something, you may feel a sense of pride, accomplishment, or security. Possession, on the other hand, may not evoke the same emotional response. Possessing something temporarily or casually may not create the same level of attachment as owning something outright.

Transfer of Rights

Ownership can be transferred through legal means such as selling, gifting, or bequeathing. When you own something, you have the right to transfer that ownership to someone else. Possession, on the other hand, is more temporary and may not involve a formal transfer of rights. Possessing something does not necessarily give you the right to transfer that possession to someone else.

Examples

To better understand the difference between owning and possessing, let's consider a few examples. If you own a car, you have legal rights to it and can sell it or transfer ownership to someone else. If you possess a book that you borrowed from a friend, you have it in your possession temporarily but do not have legal ownership of it. Ownership implies a more permanent and formal relationship with the object, while possession can be more casual and temporary.