Seize: meaning, definitions and examples

Moments when you want to describe taking hold of something firmly, often with some urgency or force. This word can also be used in the context of legal authority.

• The police seized the stolen goods.
• He seized the opportunity to speak.

Casual or informal situations where someone takes something quickly or suddenly. This term does not usually imply force or legal authority.

• I grabbed a sandwich on my way to work.
• He grabbed my arm to get my attention.

Instances where someone takes something quickly and often roughly, sometimes implying theft or an abrupt action. Generally has a negative connotation.

• The thief snatched her purse and ran away.
• The dog snatched the toy from the child.

Situations where someone is holding something tightly, often because they are anxious, in pain, or scared.

• She clutched her bag tightly as she walked through the dark alley.
• He clutched his chest in pain.

This is used when you take hold of something suddenly and forcefully, often in a legal or official manner. It can also mean to take control or possession of property.

• The police seized the illegal drugs.
• The army seized control of the city.

This is used when a person is taken into custody by law enforcement because they are suspected of committing a crime.

• The officer arrested the suspect for theft.
• She was arrested during the protest.

This is used when someone is kept in custody temporarily, often for questioning or as a preventive measure. It can be less formal than 'arrest' and not necessarily for a crime.

• The police detained the man for questioning.
• Passengers were detained at the airport for security checks.

This is used when someone or something is caught or taken by force, often in a military or adventurous context.

• The hunters captured the wild animal.
• The soldiers captured the enemy base.

Same as the first entry, used to take hold of something quickly and firmly, often with force.

• The soldiers seized the enemy's territory.
• The lion seized its prey in a single motion.

An intense, involuntary contraction of muscles, often associated with illness or seizures. Typically used in medical or serious contexts.

• The patient experienced convulsions during the seizure.
• The news threw the market into convulsions.

A sudden, uncontrollable outbreak of emotion or movement, often used for medical conditions or strong emotional reactions.

• He had a fit of laughter when he heard the joke.
• She had a fit of anger when she found out the truth.

To use violent force against someone or something. It can refer to both physical and verbal actions, often negative.

• The village was attacked by bandits.
• She felt attacked by the harsh criticism.