Another Word for Have – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples

The word have is one of the most fundamental and versatile verbs in English, used to mean to possess, hold, experience, or be required to do something. To make your English more varied and specific, learning another word for have will help. Using synonyms allows you to specify whether you mean possess, contain, or undergo.

What is Another Word for Have?

A great synonym for have (in the sense of possession) is possess. Have means to own, hold, or obtain. Possess means to have as property; to own. Both words describe the state of ownership or holding something. Learning words like possess helps you emphasize legal or personal ownership, often in a more formal context.

Meaning of “Have”

Have means to own, possess, or hold; to contain or consist of; to experience; or, to be obliged or required to do something.

We use it for ownership (I have a car), containment (The box has toys), experience (to have a great time), or obligation (You have to go).

Synonyms for “Have”

Here are some common ways to say have:

• Possess: To own or hold as property. A strong alternative for ownership.
• Contain: To hold something within; to include. Used when emphasizing what an object holds.
• Own: To have (something) as one’s own property. Used for legal ownership.
• Undergo: To experience or be subjected to (something, typically unpleasant or difficult). Used for experiences or required processes.
• Require: To need for a particular purpose; or, to be obliged to do something. Used when the meaning is obligation or necessity.

Example Sentences

• The museum possesses one of the largest collections of ancient artifacts.
• The shipping container will contain all the furniture and personal belongings.
• They decided to own their own small business rather than work for a large corporation.
• All new recruits must undergo a full medical examination.
• The project will require three months of concentrated effort to finish.

Mini Dialogue

Sam: “How many books do you have in your personal library?”

Mia: “I possess over two thousand titles. My library shelves contain every volume.”

Sam: “Wow, that’s an impressive collection!”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Don’t say: She has got the experience needed for the job. (The simple present tense is usually clearer.)

✅ Do say: She has the experience needed for the job. (Or: She possesses the experience needed.)

Let’s Practice!

Which synonym best fits this sentence? “The chemical mixture will __________ five different liquid components.” (Answer: Contain – This synonym works best because it refers specifically to holding something within its volume or structure.)

Practice Tip

Use one new synonym for have in your next message or conversation today.

Final Note

Knowing what is another word for have and practicing synonyms like possess and contain will help you describe possession and necessity clearly.