seize

Definition of seizenext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word seize different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of seize are clutch, grab, grasp, snatch, and take. While all these words mean "to get hold of by or as if by catching up with the hand," seize implies a sudden and forcible movement in getting hold of something tangible or an apprehending of something fleeting or elusive when intangible.

seized the suspect

When might clutch be a better fit than seize?

While the synonyms clutch and seize are close in meaning, clutch suggests avidity or anxiety in seizing or grasping and may imply less success in holding.

clutching her purse

How are the words grab and snatch related as synonyms of seize?

Grab implies more roughness or rudeness than snatch.

grabbed roughly by the arm

When is it sensible to use grasp instead of seize?

The words grasp and seize are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, grasp stresses a laying hold so as to have firmly in possession.

grasp the handle and pull

How do snatch and seize relate to one another?

Snatch suggests more suddenness or quickness but less force than seize.

snatched a doughnut and ran

When could take be used to replace seize?

The words take and seize can be used in similar contexts, but take is a general term applicable to any manner of getting something into one's possession or control.

take some salad from the bowl

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of seize Before Werhan left the police barracks, troopers seized his phone and his clothes and took swabs of his hands and face. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 25 June 2026 These stories emphasize that skill, belief, and groundwork are crucial for seizing opportunities, proving that true breakthroughs are built on long-term preparation. Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 The family’s apartment in Vuhledar was destroyed as Russia seized the city. Guy Davies, ABC News, 25 June 2026 Officers also searched the man’s vehicle and seized 13 grams of methamphetamine, 3 grams of heroin, multiple smoking pipes and syringes. Reeti Malhotra, Sacbee.com, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for seize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seize
Verb
  • These reports present your income and spending habits with clean, easy-to-understand visualizations.
    Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 23 June 2026
  • Raised in Rio de Janeiro, Burle Marx understood the country’s abundance as both subject and material.
    Spencer Elliott, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • The suspects arrested allegedly planned to target senior government officials with small, armed drones; no devices were launched.
    Larry Seward, CBS News, 26 June 2026
  • Police later caught up to Shockley at his father’s home in New Jersey, and he was arrested and convicted of murder.
    Andy Rose, CNN Money, 26 June 2026
Verb
  • There is an art to cutting a cantaloupe, which starts long before grabbing the knife and cutting board.
    Alexandra Frost, USA Today, 22 June 2026
  • Schmidt can be forgiven for making this headline-grabbing prediction.
    Rob Toews, Forbes.com, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • Abu Safiya also had his eyeglasses confiscated during his detainment and since been experiencing vision issues, according to Abbas.
    Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 20 June 2026
  • The prisoners were at one point given life jackets, but they were later confiscated after guards found them being used as pillows, the court document said.
    Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 18 June 2026
Verb
  • It is known to cause neurological problems, convulsions and comas, with children particularly at risk.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026
  • Martin, 36, best known for his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was selected in August as one of the top-50 players in franchise history as part of the team’s 50th anniversary celebration.
    HANNAH FINGERHUT, Chicago Tribune, 26 June 2026
Verb
  • As law enforcement officials arrived and surrounded the library, Sayer attempted to run out the back of the building but was quickly apprehended and taken into custody.
    Richard Ramos, CBS News, 26 June 2026
  • Earlier this year, two Serve Robotics machines were spotted blundering into the middle of a police incident while cops apprehended a man who appeared to be having a mental health crisis.
    Frank Landymore, Futurism, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • Bass’ absence from the city soon caught the eye of right-wingers, with Spencer Pratt, who ran against her in the nonpartisan primary election, and Steve Hilton, who is running for governor, among those critiquing her.
    Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 24 June 2026
  • Prefab kits and plug-in infrared units have brought entry prices lower than most people expect, though hidden costs like electrical upgrades and ventilation still catch buyers off guard.
    Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • Bald eagle are also known to scavenge for food and carrion, even stealing from other hunting birds mid-flight.
    Madeline Gunderson, USA Today, 19 June 2026
  • The show was canceled that year, after Mencia was accused of stealing material from other comedians.
    Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 19 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Seize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seize. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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