own
Definitions
To possess something, especially legally
拥有，占有
To admit or accept (a fault, action, or feeling) as one's own
承认（错误、行为等）
Belonging to or done by oneself (used after a possessive)
自己的，亲自的（用于物主词之后）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Old English āgen 'possessed.' As a verb it means to have as one's possession; after a possessive ('my own,' 'their own') it stresses exclusivity. The newer 'own up to' (admit) treats a fault as something you take possession of instead of denying.
Root own still carries 4 more wordsWhy It Means This
The intensifier sense ('my own') and the verb sense ('I own it') come from the same Old English word for 'possessed.' Whether you stress that something belongs only to you, or you state that you possess it, the underlying idea is identical: this is mine.
Usage Guide
Two common phrases worth knowing: 'on one's own' = alone, without help ('she did it on her own'); 'own up (to)' = confess ('he owned up to the mistake'). 'Hold your own' = manage well against competition.
Example Sentences
- 1.
They own a small farm in the countryside.
- 2.
She finally owned up to breaking the vase.
- 3.
I want a room of my own.
- 4.
He learned to cook on his own.
Easily Confused
own vs have — both can mean 'possess,' but 'own' implies legal/permanent possession (you own a car) while 'have' is broader and can be temporary (I have your pen). You can 'have' a borrowed book but you don't 'own' it.
Synonym Comparison
- own — possess as one's property, often legally
- possess — more formal; also used for abstract things (possess talent)
- have — broadest and most casual, includes temporary holding
- hold — possess in a controlled or official way (hold shares, hold a title)