What are the definitions of “seize on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To take advantage of or make use of something.
Carpenter is waiting for an opportunity to seize on something useful.
- 2To take advantage of or exploit.
Companies were quick to seize on the possibilities offered by new technology.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “seize on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb seize on is to take advantage of or make use of something, often an opportunity or a situation. It can also mean to exploit something for one's benefit.
What are the different verb forms of “seize on”?
| Root Verb | seize on |
| Third Person Singular Present | seizes on |
| Present Participle | seizing on |
| Simple Past | seized on |
| Past Participle | seized on |
Example
She always seizes on any chance to improve her skills.
Example
He seizes on every opportunity to network with influential people.
Example
They are seizing on the new technology to expand their business.
Example
She seized on the chance to travel abroad for work.
Example
The company seized on the opportunity to enter the new market.
What kind of phrasal verb is “seize on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“seize on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She seized on the opportunity to learn a new language.
Example
The company seized on the new technology to improve their products.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“seize on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She seized on the opportunity to learn a new language.
Example
The company seized on the new technology to improve their products.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “seize on”?
Seize on an opportunity
To take advantage of a chance or situation that presents itself.
Example
He seized on the opportunity to invest in the growing market.
Good things to know
Does “seize on” have an informal or formal tone?
Seize on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings such as business meetings or academic discussions.
