Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Capsize: meaning, definitions and examples

⛵
Add to dictionary

capsize

 

[ ˈkæp.saɪz ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

on a boat

Capsize means to overturn or turn on its side, usually referring to a boat or ship. This can happen due to strong winds, large waves, or improper weight distribution.

Synonyms

overturn, overturn, overturn, upset.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
capsize

Typically used to describe when a boat or ship turns over in the water. It implies an accidental or unexpected event.

  • The sailboat capsized during the storm.
  • They managed to rescue everyone after the ferry capsized.
overturn

Used to describe when an object, vehicle, or legal decision is turned over or reversed. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.

  • The car overturned after hitting the barrier.
  • The court overturned the previous ruling.
upset

Often means to knock something over, usually not related to boats. It can also mean to disturb mentally or emotionally.

  • She accidentally upset the vase, spilling water everywhere.
  • The news of his departure upset her greatly.

Examples of usage

  • The boat capsized in the stormy sea.
  • The canoe capsized when they all leaned to one side.
Context #2 | Noun

general

Capsize as a noun refers to the act of overturning or tipping over, especially in the context of a boat or ship. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a sudden and complete failure or collapse.

Synonyms

overturning, overturning, overturning, upset.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
capsize

Usually used when talking about boats or ships. It implies that the vessel flips over in the water, often due to poor weather or instability.

  • The storm was so strong that it caused the small fishing boat to capsize.
  • They managed to rescue the sailors just after their yacht capsized.
overturning

Applies to a variety of situations where anything, not just boats, flips over. It can refer to vehicles, containers, or even decisions.

  • The truck swerved suddenly and ended up overturning in the middle of the highway.
  • Overturning the decision of the board was the only way to proceed.
upset

This word has a negative connotation and can be used both literally and figuratively. Literally, it refers to causing something to tip over or spill. Figuratively, it means to disturb or distress someone emotionally.

  • I accidentally upset the vase on the table, spilling water everywhere.
  • The unexpected news really upset her.

Examples of usage

  • The capsize of the ship was a tragic event.
  • The economic capsize led to widespread unemployment.

Translations

Translations of the word "capsize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 virar

🇮🇳 उलटना

🇩🇪 kentern

🇮🇩 terbalik

🇺🇦 перекинутися

🇵🇱 wywrócić się

🇯🇵 転覆する (てんぷくする)

🇫🇷 chavirer

🇪🇸 volcarse

🇹🇷 alabora olmak

🇰🇷 전복되다

🇸🇦 ينقلب

🇨🇿 převrátit se

🇸🇰 prevrátiť sa

🇨🇳 倾覆 (qīngfù)

🇸🇮 prevrniti se

🇮🇸 velta

🇰🇿 құлау

🇬🇪 გადაბრუნება

🇦🇿 aşmaq

🇲🇽 volcarse

Etymology

The word 'capsize' originated from the French word 'capace' meaning 'head over heels'. It was first used in English in the 18th century to describe ships overturning in the sea. The term has since been widely used in nautical contexts as well as metaphorically to signify sudden failures or collapses.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,074 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.