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Repossess - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To repossess means to take back ownership of something, usually because the buyer failed to meet payment terms. It is commonly used for items like cars or homes.

repossess

/ˌriːpəˈzɛs/ /ˌriːpəˈzɛs/

Definition:

To take back property when payments are not made as agreed.

Synonyms:

reclaim, retrieve, seize, take back

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

surrender, relinquish

Common Collocations:

repossess a car, repossess property, repossess goods

Derivatives:

repossession, repossessor

Usage Tips:

Use "repossess" for legal reclaiming of items due to unpaid debts; often applies to vehicles or homes.

Common Phrases:

repossess the car, house in repossession, goods at risk of repossession

Etymology:

From Latin "re-" (again) + "possidere" (to possess), meaning to take possession again.

Examples:

  • 1. The bank will repossess the car if payments stop.
  • 2. They threatened to repossess his house after missed mortgage payments.
  • 3. The lender can repossess goods if the loan defaults.
  • 4. She lost her job and couldn’t avoid repossession of her furniture.

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