capture

word

/ˈkæptʃɝ/
KAP-chur
/kˈæptʃɐ/
KAP-chuh

Definition

To capture means to catch or take control of someone or something. It can also mean to record an image, sound, or moment, or to successfully show or attract a feeling, quality, or attention.

Usage & Nuances

Common in several contexts: police or military ('capture a suspect'), photography/technology ('capture a photo', 'capture data'), and abstract use ('capture the feeling'). 'Catch' is often more general and informal; 'capture' sounds more deliberate or formal. Typical collocations include 'capture attention', 'capture an image', and 'capture on camera'.

Example Sentences

The police captured the thief last night.

basic

This camera can capture very clear pictures.

basic

Her smile captured my attention.

basic

I tried to capture the sunset, but the colors looked dull in the photo.

natural

The movie really captures what it feels like to grow up in a small town.

natural

Can you capture that idea in one sentence for the presentation?

natural