The word "catch" has many uses and meanings, making it a versatile part of the English language. It can refer to physical acts such as grabbing or capturing, or more abstract ideas, like understanding or seizing an opportunity. Over time, the phrase "catch" has evolved to include metaphoric meanings, and its role in idiomatic expressions enriches its importance in communication. It is a prime example of how language adapts to cultural and social contexts, making it a powerful tool for expression.
catch in English
- catch⇄adj. 1. getting one's attention; arousing one's interest.
Ex. Advertisements often contain catch phrases.
2. (Figurative.) tricky; deceptive.
Ex. a catch question. - catch⇄catch, verb, caught,catching,noun, adjective.
- catch⇄expr. catch at,
a. to try to catch.
Ex. catching at his rein (William Cowper).
b. to seize eagerly.
Ex. to catch at an opportunity, a proposal, etc. - catch⇄expr. catch it, (Informal.) to be scolded or punished.
Ex. When the boy spilled the milk, he was afraid he would catch it from his mother. We all thought Tom was about to catch it (Frederick Marryat). - catch⇄expr. catch on, (Informal.)
a. (U.S.) to get the idea; understand.
Ex. The second time the teacher explained the problem, the boy caught on.
b. to be widely used or accepted; become popular.
Ex. That new song caught on quickly. - catch⇄expr. catch out,
a. (Cricket.) to put (a batsman) out by catching the ball.
Ex. If a striker is caught out, state the fieldsman's name (Cricket Manual).
b. (British.) to find out or discover (a person) in a mistake or the like. - catch⇄expr. catch up (with),
a. to come up even (with a person or thing) while going the same way; overtake.
Ex. The dog ran as fast as he could to catch up with the car.
b. (Figurative.) to come up to date; keep abreast.
Ex. I am try - catch⇄noun 1. the act of catching.
Ex. Her catch was quick enough to keep the plate from hitting the floor.
2. a thing that catches.
Ex. The catch on that door is broken.
3. a thing caught.
Ex. A dozen fish is a good catch.catch⇄v.i. 1. to become hooked or fastened.
Ex. My dress caught in the door.
2. (Figurative.) to become lighted; burn.
Ex. Paper catches easily.
3. to act as a catcher in baseball.
Ex. He catches for our school team.
4. tcatch⇄v.t. 1. to take and hold; seize; capture.
Ex. Catch the ball with both hands. The policeman caught the thief. Here, catch hold of the end of the rope.
2. to entangle or grip.
Ex. A nail caught her dress.
3. to cause to be held o
catch in Gujarati ગુજરાતી
catch in Kashmiri कॉशुर
catch in Sindhi سنڌي
Catch
Part of Speech
Verb, Noun
Pronunciation
/kæʧ/
Definitions
- Verb: To capture or seize something, often in motion, with the hands or arms.
- Verb: To become aware of something, such as a sound, smell, or sight.
- Verb: To attend or participate in (e.g., to catch a show).
- Noun: The act of capturing or seizing something.
- Noun: A hidden flaw or condition that can be troublesome.
Usage Examples
- He caught the ball during the game.
- She didn't catch the meaning of his words.
- They caught a great concert last night.
- There's always a catch when someone offers something for free.
Etymology
The word "catch" originates from Middle English "cachen," from Old French "cachier," derived from the Late Latin "captare," meaning to seize or capture.
Synonyms
- Grab
- Seize
- Snare
- Trap
- Capture
Antonyms
- Release
- Let go
- Miss
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish | Atrapar | ah-trah-par |
| French | Attraper | ah-trah-pay |
| German | Fangen | fahng-en |
| Chinese | 抓住 (Zhuā zhù) | zhoo-ah zhoo |
| Hindi | पकड़ना (Pakadna) | pah-kah-rna |
| Tamil | பிடிக்க (Piṭikka) | pi-di-kkah |
| Telugu | పట్టుకోవడం (Paṭṭukovadāṁ) | paṭṭu-ko-va-daṁ |
| Kannada | ಹಿಡಿಯುವುದು (Hiḍiyuvudu) | hi-di-yo-voo-doo |
| Bengali | পকড় (Pokaṛ) | po-kar |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
- In some regions of the US, "catch" is pronounced with a more rounded "a" sound, like "keh-ch."
- In British English, the pronunciation may have a slightly softer "t," resembling "cah-ch."
Historical Usage
The word "catch" has been used since Middle English, originally with the meaning of "to capture." The modern uses of "catch" in various expressions, such as "catch a cold" or "catch the bus," have expanded over centuries. It was historically used in hunting and fishing contexts, referring to the act of capturing animals.
Cultural Nuances
The phrase "catch a break" is often used in modern English to signify a fortunate or favorable event. In the context of sports, to "catch" a ball has become an iconic image of success and skill. In different cultures, the act of "catching" something can symbolize gaining control, grasping an opportunity, or taking charge of a situation.