# seizing

/ˈsizɪŋ/ (US) · /sˈiːzɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/seizing
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. taking by force

verb · CEFR B2

taking hold of something suddenly or taking control of a place by force.

For teachers: the act of taking possession of something suddenly, forcibly, or by legal authority.

- The soldiers were seizing the radio station to control the news.
- By seizing the strategic mountain pass, the battalion effectively cut off the enemy's primary supply route for the remainder of the winter.

### 2. stopping or jamming

verb · CEFR C1 · Technical

when a machine or part of your body stops moving because of heat or pain.

For teachers: the process of becoming stuck or jammed, often due to friction, lack of lubrication, or physiological distress.

- The engine started seizing because there was no oil left in it.
- The mechanic warned that the pistons were seizing due to extreme thermal expansion, which would eventually lead to total engine failure.

### 3. the act of taking

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

the act of taking something away, often by the police or government.

For teachers: the legal or forceful act of taking possession of property or individuals.

- The seizing of illegal goods at the border has increased this year.
- The unlawful seizing of private assets by the state led to a prolonged legal battle in the international courts.

### 4. binding with rope

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a way of tying two ropes together using a smaller cord.

For teachers: a method of fastening two ropes or two parts of the same rope together by lashing them with smaller cordage.

- The sailor checked the seizing on the mast to ensure it was tight.
- A proper seizing requires the small stuff to be wound tightly around both ropes to prevent any slippage under heavy tension.

### 5. impressive

adjective · CEFR C1 · Literary

something that is so impressive or strong that it grabs your attention.

For teachers: having a striking or impressive quality that commands immediate attention.

- The mountain had a seizing beauty that made us stop and look.
- The orator spoke with a seizing intensity that left the audience in absolute silence for several minutes after he finished.

## Examples

- The police are seizing the illegal goods now.
- Customs officers are seizing any prohibited items found in the passengers' luggage during the routine inspection.
- The revolutionary forces are seizing control of the capital's main communication hubs to prevent the government from broadcasting further propaganda.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.