Phrasal verbs "dwell on" vs "seize on"

Differences between dwell on and seize on

Dwell on means to think or talk about something for a long time, often in a negative way, whereas seize on means to quickly take advantage of an opportunity or idea.

Meanings and Definitions: dwell on vs seize on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Dwell on

• 1. Spend a lot of time on something.

  The programme DWELLED ON little other than the scandal.

Seize on

• 1. To take advantage of or make use of something.

  Carpenter is waiting for an opportunity to seize on something useful.

• 2. To take advantage of or exploit.

  Companies were quick to seize on the possibilities offered by new technology.

Usage Examples: dwell on, seize on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

dwell on

Example

I don't want to dwell on the past.

Example

She dwells on her mistakes too much.

seize on

Example

She always seizes on any chance to improve her skills.

Example

He seizes on every opportunity to network with influential people.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Dwell on

fixate on

To focus or concentrate on something to an excessive degree.

Example

She tends to fixate on small mistakes and overlook the big picture.

harbor resentment

To hold onto feelings of anger or bitterness towards someone or something.

Example

He harbors resentment towards his former boss for not promoting him.

mull over

To think carefully and at length about something.

Example

She spent hours mulling over the decision before finally making up her mind.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Seize on

jump at

To eagerly accept or take advantage of an opportunity.

Example

When she was offered the job, she jumped at the chance to work for such a prestigious company.

capitalize on

To take advantage of a situation or resource to achieve a goal or gain an advantage.

Example

The company decided to capitalize on the trend by launching a new line of eco-friendly products.

make the most of

To use a situation or opportunity to one's advantage.

Example

She decided to make the most of her vacation by exploring new places and trying new activities.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “dwell”

• dwell upon

Phrasal Verbs with “seize”

• seize up

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

• jump on
• bring on
• throw on
• tell on
• wait on

Differences in dwell on vs seize on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: dwell on or seize on?

Both dwell on and seize on are commonly used in spoken and written English, but seize on is more frequently used in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of dwell on and seize on

Both dwell on and seize on are considered formal phrases and are suitable for use in academic or business contexts. However, dwell on may be perceived as more negative or emotional, while seize on can convey a more positive or proactive tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of dwell on and seize on

The tone of dwell on is often negative or regretful, while the tone of seize on is usually positive or opportunistic.

dwell on & seize on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Dwell on

Synonyms

• ruminate
• ponder
• brood
• reflect
• consider
• contemplate
• mull over
• think about

Antonyms

• ignore
• overlook
• disregard
• forget
• neglect
• dismiss
• let go

Seize on

Synonyms

• exploit
• utilize
• leverage
• take advantage of
• capitalize on
• make use of
• embrace
• jump on

Antonyms

• ignore
• overlook
• miss
• neglect
• disregard
• abandon
• pass up
• let go