seize Definition
- 1take hold of suddenly and forcibly
- 2capture or take by legal process
- 3take possession of (something) by legal right
Using seize: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "seize" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The police officer seized the suspect by the arm.
Example
The government seized his property for unpaid taxes.
Example
The company seized control of the market.
seize Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with seize
Example
I decided to seize the day and travel the world while I still can.
seize up
become stuck or unable to move
Example
The engine seized up and we had to call a mechanic.
seize on/upon
take advantage of an opportunity quickly and eagerly
Example
The company seized upon the chance to expand into new markets.
Origins of seize
from Old French 'saisir', from medieval Latin 'saisire', alteration of Latin 'satisfacere' meaning 'to satisfy'
Summary: seize in Brief
The verb 'seize' [siːz] means to take hold of something suddenly and forcibly, capture or take by legal process, or take possession of something by legal right. Examples include 'The police officer seized the suspect by the arm,' and 'The company seized control of the market.' Phrases include 'seize the day,' 'seize up,' and 'seize on/upon.'