What is meant by "severalty" in the context of property ownership?

In the context of property ownership, "severalty" refers to exclusive ownership of an estate by a single individual. This means that the owner holds title to the property independently, without any shared ownership or interest from other parties. The key aspect of severalty is the sole control and responsibility the individual has over the property, which includes the rights to use, sell, lease, or modify the property as they deem fit. This concept is fundamental in real estate, as it defines the nature of ownership and the rights associated with it.

In contrast, the other choices represent different forms of ownership. Joint ownership implies that more than one individual holds rights to the property, while community ownership suggests shared interests among spouses or partners. Temporary ownership and various forms of estate partnerships also diverge from the idea of sole ownership that "severalty" embodies. Understanding this distinction is crucial for grasping the nuances of property law and ownership types.