self-possession: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal/Literary
Quick answer
What does “self-possession” mean?
The quality of being calm, confident, and in control of one's feelings and behaviour, especially in difficult situations.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The quality of being calm, confident, and in control of one's feelings and behaviour, especially in difficult situations.
A composed and assured state of mind that inspires confidence in others; a demeanor marked by poise and collectedness under pressure.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The term is more common in British English writing but understood and used in American English.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes dignity, maturity, and composure. It often implies a certain formality or aristocratic bearing.
Frequency
More frequently encountered in British literary and journalistic prose. In American English, it might be perceived as slightly more formal or old-fashioned.
Grammar
How to Use “self-possession” in a Sentence
Verb + self-possession (e.g., *display*, *exhibit*, *lose*, *regain*, *maintain* self-possession)Adjective + self-possession (e.g., *remarkable*, *complete*, *unshakeable*, *calm* self-possession)Preposition + self-possession (e.g., *with* self-possession, *a sense of* self-possession)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “self-possession” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A - 'self-possession' is a noun.
American English
- N/A - 'self-possession' is a noun.
adverb
British English
- N/A - 'self-possession' is a noun. The related adverb is 'self-possessedly'. (e.g., He nodded self-possessedly.)
American English
- N/A - 'self-possession' is a noun. The related adverb is 'self-possessedly'. (e.g., She spoke self-possessedly.)
adjective
British English
- N/A - 'self-possession' is a noun. The related adjective is 'self-possessed'. (e.g., She was remarkably self-possessed.)
American English
- N/A - 'self-possession' is a noun. The related adjective is 'self-possessed'. (e.g., He gave a self-possessed answer.)
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Her self-possession during the hostile boardroom questioning was impressive.
Academic
The philosopher argued that true self-possession arises from a deep understanding of one's own nature.
Everyday
Even when the cake collapsed, she handled it with such self-possession that no one noticed.
Technical
The term is not commonly used in technical fields.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “self-possession”
Strong
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “self-possession”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “self-possession”
- Using it as a countable noun (*He has a good self-possession*). Correct: *He has good self-possession.*
- Confusing it with 'self-confidence' (which is broader and less specific to composure under pressure).
- Misspelling as 'self-possesion' (one 's').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While related, 'self-confidence' is a broader belief in one's abilities. 'Self-possession' is specifically about maintaining composure and control over one's emotions and reactions, especially in stressful situations. A self-possessed person appears unflustered.
It is more specific. 'Self-possession' implies an active, controlled calmness in the face of potential disturbance, not just a passive quiet nature. It often involves a visible, dignified command of a situation.
No, it is considered a formal and somewhat literary term. In everyday speech, people are more likely to say someone has 'great composure', 'stayed really calm', or 'kept their cool'.
They are very close synonyms. 'Poise' often refers more to graceful physical bearing and balance, while 'self-possession' emphasizes the mental and emotional control that results in that graceful bearing. They are frequently used interchangeably.
The quality of being calm, confident, and in control of one's feelings and behaviour, especially in difficult situations.
Self-possession is usually formal/literary in register.
Self-possession: in British English it is pronounced /ˌself pəˈzeʃn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌself pəˈzeʃn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To have the self-possession of a duchess”
- “Not to lose one's self-possession”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: SELF + POSSESSION. Imagine you possess yourself completely; you are in full control, like a valuable object held firmly.
Conceptual Metaphor
SELF-CONTROL IS OWNERSHIP/POSSESSION (One 'possesses' or 'holds onto' oneself firmly to maintain composure).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the best definition of 'self-possession'?