nab
word
Definition
To catch or take someone or something quickly, often by surprise; commonly used to mean to arrest someone or grab something before someone else does.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and often used in news or conversation for catching criminals ('nab a thief') or grabbing opportunities/items quickly ('nab the last ticket'). Not appropriate for formal writing. Can sound playful or dramatic.
Spanish: atrapar - pillarPortuguese (BR): pegar - capturarPortuguese (PT): apanhar - capturarChinese (Simplified): 逮住 - 抓住Chinese (Traditional): 逮到 - 抓到Hindi: पकड़ लेनाArabic: يمسك - يقبض على
Example Sentences
The police nabbed the burglar at night.
basic
Can you nab that book for me?
basic
I managed to nab the last piece of cake.
basic
They tried to run, but the cops nabbed them quickly.
natural
Did you nab tickets to the concert before they sold out?
natural
He tried to nab my fries when I wasn’t looking.
natural