catch

Definition

To take hold of something that is moving, to receive something in your hands, or to discover something unexpectedly. Also used to mean getting an illness or understanding a point.

Usage & Nuances

'Catch' is very versatile: 'catch a ball', 'catch a bus', 'catch a cold'. Often used for physical actions, but also means to get an illness or opportunity. In sports, always say 'catch a ball', not 'take a ball'. In informal speech, 'Did you catch that?' means 'Did you understand?'.

Example Sentences