Capture: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe the act of obtaining something, not only in terms of photos or videos but also in expressions like 'capture attention' or 'capture the moment'.

• She managed to capture the beauty of the sunset in her painting.
• The documentary captures the essence of the city.

Generally used for audio or video recordings, emphasizing the process of preserving sounds or images for later playback.

• I need to record this lecture for my notes.
• They recorded their conversation on their phones.

Used when referring to the action of making a movie or recording a video, mainly in professional or semi-professional contexts.

• They decided to film the entire event for future reference.
• The director plans to film the new scene tomorrow.

Commonly used in photography or videography to describe the act of taking a photo or filming. It is informal and often used among professionals.

• We are going to shoot some scenes at the beach.
• Do you want to shoot some pictures this afternoon?

Used when talking about the act of catching or taking someone or something, often in a physical or military sense.

• The soldiers managed to capture the enemy base.
• She tried to capture the lost cat with a net.

A person who has been legally deprived of their freedom following a criminal conviction, or someone held by an enemy during wartime.

• The prisoner was sentenced to ten years in jail.
• During the war, many soldiers were taken as prisoners.

Refers to someone who has been captured and is being held, often against their will. Usually implies a prolonged state of captivity.

• The captive soldiers were kept in a prison camp for months.
• They freed the captive animals from the illegal zoo.

Commonly used in a legal or political context, referring to someone who is being held by authorities, typically for questioning or investigative purposes.

• The detainee was questioned for hours regarding the incident.
• There are several detainees in the facility awaiting trial.

Use when taking control of something or someone, physically or metaphorically. Can refer to both literal and figurative possession.

• The police were able to capture the fugitive
• The painting captures the essence of the countryside

Refers to a quality that causes interest or desire in people, can be physical, emotional, or intellectual.

• The theme park is a major tourist attraction
• He has a natural attraction to science and technology

Describes a powerful feeling of being intensely interested or captivated by something or someone.

• Her fascination with astronomy started when she was a child
• The magician's tricks held the audience in fascination

Describes a strong, often mysterious charm or attraction, usually related to beauty or an enticing quality.

• The allure of the ancient city is undeniable
• Her smile has a certain allure that is hard to resist