What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nab
Example
The police were able to nab the thief before he could escape. [nab: verb]
Example
I saw him try to nab a candy bar from the store. [nab: verb]
Example
The detectives were finally able to nab the suspect after weeks of investigation. [nab: verb]
arrest
Example
The police made an arrest in connection with the robbery. [arrest: noun]
Example
The construction was arrested due to lack of funding. [arrest: verb]
Example
The colorful mural arrested the attention of passersby. [arrest: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Arrest is more commonly used than nab in everyday language, especially in legal or official contexts. Nab is less common and more informal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nab and arrest?
Arrest is more formal and commonly used in legal or official contexts, while nab is more informal and colloquial, often used in casual conversation or media headlines.
