Another Word for Having – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples
The word having (the present participle of have) is extremely versatile, meaning possessing, containing, or experiencing something. To make your English more varied and specific, learning another word for having will help. Using synonyms allows you to specify whether you mean possessing, including, or consuming.
What is Another Word for Having?
A great synonym for having (in the sense of possession) is possessing. Having means owning, holding, or obtaining. Possessing means owning or holding as property, or having a particular quality. Both words describe the current state of ownership or holding something. Learning words like possessing helps you emphasize a current, continuous state of ownership or characteristic.
Meaning of “Having”
Having means owning, possessing, or holding; containing or consisting of; or, experiencing or consuming.
We use it for possession (A person having wealth), composition (A machine having many parts), or consumption (Having dinner).
Synonyms for “Having”
Here are some common ways to say having:
- Possessing: Owning or holding (an object or quality). A strong, formal alternative for ownership.
- Containing: Holding or including (something) within. Used when emphasizing what an object holds.
- Comprising: Consisting of; having as its parts or members. Used for systems, groups, or collections.
- Consuming: Eating, drinking, or taking in (food, energy, etc.). Used when the meaning relates to eating/drinking.
- Undergoing: Experiencing or being subjected to (a process or difficulty). Used for required or difficult experiences.
Example Sentences
- The investor, possessing great wealth, decided to fund the startup.
- The large database, containing millions of records, required frequent backups.
- The committee, comprising members from various departments, met every Friday.
- Before consuming the meal, please check for any potential allergens.
- The patient is currently undergoing intensive physical therapy.
Mini Dialogue
Sam: “I’m surprised she’s so calm, having to deal with all this pressure.”
Mia: “Yes, undergoing such an intense period would normally make anyone stressed.”
Sam: “It helps that she’s possessing a great deal of experience.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t say: Having got the materials, we can start. (The simple present participle is usually enough.)
✅ Do say: Having the materials, we can start. (Or: Obtaining the materials, we can start.)
Let’s Practice!
Which synonym best fits this sentence? “The organization, __________ five different subsidiary groups, covers a wide range of industries.” (Answer: Comprising – This synonym works best because it refers specifically to consisting of certain parts or members.)
Practice Tip
Use one new synonym for having in your next message or conversation today.
Final Note
Knowing what is another word for having and practicing synonyms like possessing and comprising will help you describe states of being and composition clearly.
