C1verb1K

Seize

UK /["/siːz/","/ˈsiːzɪz/","/siːzd/","/ˈsiːzɪŋ/"]/US /["/siːz/","/ˈsiːzɪz/","/siːzd/","/ˈsiːzɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to take somebody/something in your hand suddenly and using force

In simple words: To take something quickly or suddenly.

Examples

  • The police decided to seize the stolen goods as evidence in the case.
  • The army planned to seize the strategic hill to gain an advantage.
  • She tried to seize the opportunity to study abroad when it was offered.
  • He managed to seize the moment and give a brilliant speech.
  • The sudden attack caused the troops to seize control of the village quickly.
  • His hand began to seize up after hours of playing the piano nonstop.
  • During the emergency, the machinery started to seize, halting production.

Usage notes

Use 'seize' when talking about taking control or possession of something. It can be used in legal contexts or to describe capturing opportunities. Avoid in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

seize + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'seas' — imagine grabbing a handful of seashells.

Collocations

  • immediately
  • suddenly
  • by
  • from
  • seize hold of somebody/​something
  • immediately
  • suddenly
  • by
  • from
  • seize hold of somebody/​something
  • immediately
  • instantly
  • quickly
  • be quick to
  • be ready to
  • be determined to
  • on
  • upon
  • an attempt to seize something
  • the power to seize something
  • the right to seize something
  • immediately
  • instantly
  • quickly
  • be quick to
  • be ready to
  • be determined to
  • on
  • upon
  • an attempt to seize something
  • the power to seize something
  • the right to seize something

Synonyms

  • capture
  • grab
  • take
  • apprehend
  • snatch

Antonyms

  • release
  • let go

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'cease' which means to stop.
  • Using 'seize' with wrong tenses, e.g. saying 'seized' when meaning present tense.
  • Mistakenly using it without an object, e.g. saying 'I seize' instead of 'I seize the opportunity'.