What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nabbed
Example
The police nabbed the thief as he was trying to escape. [nabbed: past tense]
Example
I quickly nabbed the last slice of pizza before anyone else could get it. [nabbed: past tense]
Example
He nabbed the ball from the opposing team and scored a goal. [nabbed: past tense]
seize
Example
The government seized the property for unpaid taxes. [seized: past tense]
Example
She seized the opportunity to speak with the CEO when he walked by her desk. [seized: past tense]
Example
The police seized the drugs that were being smuggled across the border. [seized: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Seize is more commonly used than nabbed in formal contexts, legal settings, and everyday language. Nabbed is less common and is typically used in informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nabbed and seize?
Seize is more formal than nabbed. While seize can be used in both formal and informal contexts, it is often associated with legal or official language. Nabbed, on the other hand, is more informal and is typically used in casual conversation or storytelling.