apprehend
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌæprɪˈhɛnd/
KK: /æprɪˈhɛnd/
intransitive verb
Definition
To understand or grasp the meaning of something.
Example
It took me a while to apprehend the complex theory in the book.
Tense Forms
Past: apprehended
Past Participle: apprehended
Conversation
I really struggle to apprehend complex topics in class.
Yeah, some subjects can be really challenging to grasp.
I wish there was an easier way to apprehend the material.
Maybe we could study together; it might help both of us!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grasp
comprehend
fathom
Antonyms
misunderstand
overlook
ignore
transitive verb
Definition
To take someone into custody or to understand something clearly.
Example
The police were able to apprehend the suspect after a long chase.
Tense Forms
Past: apprehended
Past Participle: apprehended
Conversation
Did you hear about the police operation last night?
Yeah, I saw it on the news! They managed to apprehend several suspects.
It's good to know they can still catch criminals like that.
Root Explanation
Apprehend is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "prehendere" (meaning to seize or grasp). The word describes the act of seizing or grasping something, often in the context of understanding or capturing an idea or a person.
Memory Tip
Think of 'seizing' ('prehendere') something 'to' ('ad-') understand it better — that's why apprehend means to grasp or understand.
Visually Confused Words
reapprehend
coapprehend
prehend
misapprehend
unapprehended
append