Trapping: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used when referring to hunting or wildlife management, typically for catching animals with traps.

• He spent the day in the forest trapping rabbits
• The researchers were trapping small mammals for their study

Similar to trapping, often used in the context of hunting, but with a more traditional or old-fashioned feel, can also imply catching something unexpected.

• He set up a snare in hopes of snaring a rabbit for dinner
• The detective was good at snaring criminals with clever traps

Used in a broader context, often referring to the act of taking someone or something under control, arresting, or recording an image or moment.

• The photographer did an excellent job capturing the beauty of the sunset
• The police were focused on capturing the fugitive

Has a negative connotation, often implying deceit or entrapment, used in contexts like tricking someone or getting someone involved in a difficult situation.

• The con artist was skilled at ensnaring his victims in elaborate scams
• She realized too late that she was ensnaring herself in a harmful relationship

Typically refers to physically capturing something or someone, often in a cage or similar device. Can also be used in a metaphorical or technical sense to describe situations where one is caught or ensnared.

• The scientist was adept at trapping small animals for his research.
• She felt like she was trapping herself in her own lies.

Commonly used in the context of collecting large amounts of data, often from various sources, such as social media or other online platforms. Can have negative connotations, especially when done without consent.

• The company was criticized for data harvesting without user consent.
• Data harvesting can provide valuable insights for market research.

Involves secretly capturing data or communications, usually without the sender's or receiver's knowledge. Often associated with security breaches or espionage.

• The government agency is responsible for information interception to prevent cyber attacks.
• The hackers were skilled at information interception, accessing private emails.

Refers to the intrusive or unauthorized access to someone's private information. This has a strongly negative connotation, implying a violation of personal boundaries.

• Installing spyware on someone's phone is a clear invasion of privacy.
• The journalist was sued for privacy invasion after publishing personal details.