Seize up Meaning in English
expression
التعريف
To suddenly stop working, moving, or functioning, often due to a mechanical problem or stiffness. It can describe machines or parts of the body.
الاستخدام والفروق الدقيقة
Common in informal and technical speech. Often used for engines, machines, or stiff joints/muscles. Not for stopping intentionally—implies an unwanted, sudden halt. Can apply to literal or metaphorical situations (e.g., "My brain seized up").
جمل نموذجية
If your muscles seize up during exercise, stop immediately to avoid injury.
natural
My phone seized up and wouldn't respond, so I had to restart it.
natural
The old engine started to seize up on the highway.
basic
After sitting for hours, my knees seized up.
basic
Without enough oil, the machine will seize up.
basic
Halfway through the presentation, my brain just seized up.
natural