seize
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /siːz/
KK: /siz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To come to a stop or to hold firmly, often suddenly or with force.
Example
The negotiations seized when both sides could not agree.
Tense Forms
Past: seized
Past Participle: seized
Conversation
Did you notice how the meeting just seemed to seize at one point?
Yeah, it felt like everyone ran out of things to say.
Exactly! It was so awkward when the conversation just seized like that.
I know, right? I think we need to prepare better next time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
halt
stop
grasp
Antonyms
release
letgo
free
transitive verb
Definition
To take hold of something suddenly and forcefully, or to take control of something.
Example
The police decided to seize the stolen goods from the suspect's house.
Tense Forms
Past: seized
Past Participle: seized
Conversation
Did you see how he tried to seize the opportunity during the presentation?
Yeah, it was impressive how he handled the questions too.
I think he really knows how to seize the moment when it counts.
Root Explanation
Seize originates from Old French 'saisir' (meaning to take or grasp). The word conveys the action of taking hold of something firmly or suddenly.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old French word 'saisir' which means to take or grasp — this helps you remember that 'seize' means to take hold of something.
Visually Confused Words
size
upseize
serbize
sensize
reseize
sizes
sizer
sized