seize

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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 Dominique's cache of 20,000 explicit photos and videos were discovered in the fall of 2020 when police seized his phone camera and computer after he was accused of filming up the skirts of three women in supermarkets. Kc Baker, People.com, 25 Aug. 2025 Despite these challenges, the mood in Istanbul has been upbeat and ready to seize the opportunity. Mayu Saini, Sourcing Journal, 25 Aug. 2025 A number of factors beyond redistricting leave Democrats well positioned to seize the chamber, according to election handicappers, who say the national mood favors the more energized Democrats. Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 25 Aug. 2025 To offer a personal example, early in my career at a Hollywood studio, physical presence in a collaborative office was a valuable part of my learning — and gave me opportunities to seize unspoken opportunities. Melody Brue, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for seize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seize
Verb
  • But public health experts say the conditions that made parts of the city fertile ground for the disease this summer have been spreading widely, and all Americans need to understand the risk factors involved.
    Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 23 Aug. 2025
  • That provides counties with more data for understanding the scope of the disaster.
    Bridget Fogarty, jsonline.com, 23 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • As of early Sunday afternoon, Israeli police say 38 protesters had been arrested across the country for disturbing the peace.
    From Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 17 Aug. 2025
  • The owner of an ice cream shop was arrested on charges including child pornography after a hidden camera was discovered in the store bathroom, Illinois officials say.
    Mitchell Willetts, Kansas City Star, 17 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • But Sunday, unfortunately for him, slipped away quickly as World No. 1 grabbed his fifth season title.
    Devlina Sarkar, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Aug. 2025
  • Four prisoners had to take turns using a bunk bed just to grab a few hours of sleep.
    Michael Collins, USA Today, 18 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Agents allegedly confiscated his Real ID and phone.
    Billal Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Aug. 2025
  • Last December, Greek Police confiscated 205 pounds of cocaine at the Thessaloniki port after customs agents X-rayed a banana container.
    Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 12 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Several of the Jeep fans who spoke to the Free Press mentioned or knew of the recent contest FCA hosted to pick a Jeep Top Canine from thousands of entries.
    Eric D. Lawrence, USA Today, 24 Aug. 2025
  • In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here's what to know: Ease off the accelerator - Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 24 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Dunn tried to run away but was apprehended, police said.
    Nino Paoli, Fortune, 15 Aug. 2025
  • Members of the Norwich Police Department’s Patrol and Detective Divisions worked in conjunction with the Montville Police Department and the Connecticut State Police to identify, track and apprehend the man, Besse said.
    Staff report, Hartford Courant, 14 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Travelers were at the airport to catch flights, but above them, chasers were rushing to catch the storm.
    Hayleigh Evans, AZCentral.com, 28 Aug. 2025
  • Seven in 10 employees admitted they’d been caught by their employers.
    Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • His family hid in the woods, sleeping in tents made of pine needles and stealing vegetables from nearby farms.
    Jessica Tzikas, Sun Sentinel, 21 Aug. 2025
  • The multifunction massaging seats stole the show for passengers during our review experience.
    Charles Singh, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Seize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seize. Accessed 30 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on seize

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