seize
Translation
to seize, to confiscate, to grab
Examples
He seized my arm to get my attention.
He seized my arm to get my attention.
The police seized the illegal goods.
The police seized the illegal goods.
You must seize this opportunity.
You must seize this opportunity.
The engine seized up due to a lack of oil.
The engine seized up due to a lack of oil.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to take hold of (sth.) suddenly and firmly He seized her hand.
((sth.)) to take (sth.) using official power The authorities seized his passport.
((an opportunity/chance)) to take (an opportunity) eagerly She seized the chance to study abroad.
Similar Words
Synonyms: grab, snatch, confiscate, capture
Etymology
From Old French 'saisir', meaning 'to take possession of'.
Memory Tips
Sounds like 'sees'. When you 'see' an opportunity, you 'seize' it.