What's the difference between
and
Enter two words to compare and contrast their definitions, origins, and synonyms to better understand how those words are related.

Encompass vs Possess - What's the difference?

encompass | possess |

In transitive terms the difference between encompass and possess

is that encompass is to go around, especially, to circumnavigate while possess is to take control of someone's body or mind, especially in a supernatural manner.

encompass

English

Verb

(es)
  • To form a circle around; to encircle.
  • To include within its scope; to circumscribe or go round so as to surround; to enclose; to contain.
  • To include completely; to describe fully or comprehensively.
  • This book on English grammar encompasses all irregular verbs.
  • To go around, especially, to circumnavigate.
  • Drake encompassed the globe.

    Synonyms

    * comprehend * embrace * include

    References

    * *

    possess

    English

    Verb

    (es)
  • To have; to have ownership of.
  • * 1818 , (Mary Shelley), (Frankenstein) , Volume 3, Chapter 7:
  • [...], the companions of our childhood always possess a certain power over our minds, which hardly any later friend can obtain.
  • * {{quote-book, year=1922, author=(Ben Travers), title=(A Cuckoo in the Nest)
  • , chapter=1 citation , passage=He read the letter aloud. Sophia listened with the studied air of one for whom, even in these days, a title possessed some surreptitious allurement.}}
  • To take control of someone's body or mind, especially in a supernatural manner.
  • To vest ownership in (someone); to give someone power or knowledge; to acquaint; to inform.
  • * 1599 , (William Shakespeare), (Much Ado About Nothing) ,
  • LEONATO. I cannot bid you bid my daughter live;
    That were impossible; but, I pray you both,
    Possess the people in Messina here
    How innocent she died;
  • * 1599 , (William Shakespeare), (Twelfth Night) , II, 3
  • [Sir Toby Belch] Possess' us, '''possess' us ; tell us something of him.

    Quotations

    *

    Synonyms

    * seise * (qualities or characteristics) inhold