foreclose
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /fɔːrˈkloʊz/
KK: /fɔrˈkloʊz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To take possession of a property because the owner has failed to pay the mortgage or loan.
Example
The bank decided to foreclose on the house after the owner missed several payments.
Tense Forms
Past: foreclosed
Past Participle: foreclosed
Conversation
I heard that some banks may foreclose on properties soon.
Really? That sounds serious; I hope it doesn't affect too many people.
Yeah, it's tough for those who are struggling with their payments.
Absolutely, it’s always sad to see families lose their homes.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
repossess
seize
take
Antonyms
release
liberate
restore
transitive verb
Definition
To take away someone's right to keep their property, usually because they have not paid their mortgage or loan.
Example
The bank decided to foreclose on the house after the owner missed several payments.
Tense Forms
Past: foreclosed
Past Participle: foreclosed
Conversation
I heard they might foreclose on that house if the owners don't pay their mortgage soon.
That's really unfortunate; I can't imagine losing a home like that.
Yeah, it seems so harsh to foreclose without trying to help first.
Root Explanation
Foreclose → It is formed from "fore-" (meaning before) and "claudere" (meaning to close). The word refers to the act of closing off a property or right before it can be claimed by someone else, typically in a legal context.
Memory Tip
Think of 'closing' ('claudere') something 'before' ('fore-') it can be taken away — that's why foreclose means to close off a property.
Visually Confused Words
reclose
preclose
relose