B1verbformal1K

Arrest

UK /["/əˈrest/","/əˈrests/","/əˈrestɪd/","/əˈrestɪŋ/"]/US /["/əˈrest/","/əˈrests/","/əˈrestɪd/","/əˈrestɪŋ/"]/

Definition

if the police arrest somebody, the person is taken to a police station and kept there because the police believe they may be guilty of a crime

In simple words: To taken someone by the police because they think they did something wrong.

Examples

  • The police decided to arrest the suspect after gathering enough evidence.
  • She was wrongfully arrested for a crime she didn’t commit.
  • They were able to arrest him before he could flee the country.
  • The doctor needed to arrest the bleeding immediately to save the patient's life.
  • Her speech was able to arrest the attention of everyone in the room.

Usage notes

Used primarily in legal contexts. Avoid using in casual conversation unless discussing crime or law topics. Can sound too serious for light discussions.

Grammar pattern

arrest + object

Memory hint

Think of 'A-Rest', where someone is being stopped from moving while they rest.

Collocations

  • arrest someone
  • arrest warrant
  • arrest for theft
  • arrest on suspicion

Synonyms

  • detain
  • capture
  • apprehend
  • seize

Antonyms

  • release
  • free

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'detain' which means to hold someone temporarily.
  • Using it without an object, such as saying 'He was arrested' instead of 'They arrested him.'
  • Misusing the term for non-legal situations.