Snatch: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe a quick, often forceful, taking of something, sometimes with the implication of stealing.

• He managed to snatch the purse before anyone noticed.
• She snatched the microphone to make her announcement.

Used to describe taking hold of something quickly and firmly. It can also imply an action done in haste or without much thought.

• Grab your coat; we're leaving.
• He grabbed the last piece of cake.

Usually implies taking something by force or with authority, and often has a more formal or serious tone.

• The police seized the stolen goods.
• Seize the opportunity while you can.

Means to catch or obtain something quickly, often used in a casual or informal setting. It can also refer to catching something accidentally on a protruding object.

• I was able to snag the last ticket to the concert.
• Her sweater snagged on the nail.

Commonly used for intercepting or seizing something in motion, like a ball or an object being thrown. It can also mean to capture someone's attention or a moment.

• Can you catch the ball?
• I managed to catch a glimpse of the famous actor.

Commonly used to describe quickly taking something, often without permission, and can have a negative connotation.

• He tried to snatch her purse.
• The thief snatched the phone from the table.

Typically used for taking something quickly and forcefully, and may or may not have a negative connotation depending on context.

• He grabbed the last piece of pizza.
• She grabbed her coat and ran out the door.

Often used in a legal or medical context, indicating taking possession of something, especially by force or authority. In medicine, it refers to an episode of abnormal brain activity.

• The police made a seizure of illegal goods.
• She was taken to the hospital after having a seizure.

Often used informally to describe catching or obtaining something quickly, usually in a positive or neutral sense. It can also mean catching or tearing on something.

• I managed to snag the last ticket to the concert.
• He snagged his sweater on a nail.

Usually describes capturing or stopping something in motion, such as a ball or an event. It generally does not carry a negative connotation.

• She is very good at catching balls.
• Catching the train at rush hour can be stressful.