Seize on Meaning in English
expression
ˈsiz/ /ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn
SEEZ-on
sˈiːz/ /ˈɒn
SEEZ-on
Definition
To quickly notice or take advantage of an idea, opportunity, or remark—often for personal gain or argument.
Usage & Nuances
Common in formal and informal speech. Usually followed by nouns ('seize on an idea', 'seize on a comment'). Often suggests eagerness or opportunism. Don't confuse with 'seize' (to physically grab). Synonymous with 'jump on', but a bit less forceful.
Spanish: aprovechar - aferrarse aPortuguese (BR): aproveitar - agarrarPortuguese (PT): aproveitar - agarrarChinese (Simplified): 抓住（机会、话题等） - 利用Chinese (Traditional): 抓住（機會、話題等） - 利用Hindi: झपट लेना - जोर देनाArabic: ينتهز - يغتنمBengali: লোভের সুযোগ নেওয়া - তাৎক্ষণিকভাবে গ্রহণ করাRussian: ухватиться за - воспользоватьсяJapanese: 飛びつくVietnamese: chớp lấy - nắm bắtKorean: 덥석 물다 - 기회를 잡다Turkish: fırsat yakalamak - hemen değerlendirmekUrdu: فوراً فائدہ اٹھانا - موقع سے فائدہ اٹھاناIndonesian: chớp lấy - nắm bắt
Example Sentences
The reporter quickly seized on his mistake.
basic
People seized on the new idea to save money.
basic
Critics seized on the politician’s words.
basic
Everyone seized on the announcement as proof the project would continue.
natural
She tends to seize on small details and make them the focus.
natural
Opponents seized on his comment to attack his plan.
natural