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
  • When choosing a warranty, review the contract, check what is covered, and understand the claims process.
    Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • However, it is rarely used on mainstream weather maps and by TV meteorologists, who favor the heat index that has long reigned supreme and is easily understood by the public.
    Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 3 July 2026
Verb
  • On July 1, Russian daredevils climbed to the tip of the building's spire before getting engaged, and then arrested.
    Bryan West, USA Today, 4 July 2026
  • Two people were arrested and charged with murder Thursday in the 2024 overdose death of a Fort Worth man, according to online jail records.
    Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 July 2026
Verb
  • Video of the incident showed the professor grabbing and twisting the arm of the pro-Palestinian student.
    Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026
  • As police tried to handcuff Sever, the Westmoreland County District Attorney's Office said Sever swung at troopers and forcefully grabbed at a trooper's duty weapon, which was secured in a holster.
    Madeline Bartos, CBS News, 29 June 2026
Verb
  • In Dallas, the FBI recently announced agents confiscated four drones that allegedly violated Temporary Flight Restrictions over AT&T Stadium and the city's FIFA Fan Festival.
    Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2026
  • Amid anecdotal reports that airport security services have been confiscating bottles of ranch dressing that sports tourists have tried to smuggle out of the country, Kraft Heinz came up with a TSA-friendly size of ranch dressing.
    Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 25 June 2026
Verb
  • Cape Verde 40-year-old goalkeeper Josimar Jose Evora Dias, also known as Vozinha, became a fan favorite along the way.
    Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 4 July 2026
  • Sometimes there is a fine line between being a hero or a bum, but Dave has been able to negotiate that line, because players trust him, and the players know that Dave cares about them and their families.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026
Verb
  • Photos from the match showed multiple people being apprehended or escorted away by security during the bizarre stoppage.
    Dan Zaksheske, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026
  • Chavez, 19, ran from the scene, but was later apprehended.
    Ciara McCarthy June 27, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 June 2026
Verb
  • Maxxine battled back, but Raquel caught a spinning kick attempt and stuck Maxxine with a Tejana Bomb for the win.
    Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
  • Officers were stationed at exit routes, aimed at catching the participants.
    Adam Thompson, CBS News, 30 June 2026
Verb
  • Zach Neto walked to begin the inning but got picked off at first base attempting to steal second.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026
  • Yamal is most likely your favorite player’s favorite player to watch, to steal a somewhat corny adage.
    Ashley Mowreader, NBC news, 3 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Seize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seize. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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