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catch

Transitive VerbIntransitive Verb[C/U] Both
pl: catchespast: caughtpp: caughting: catchingcomp: nullsup: null

The word evokes a sense of suddenness and precision. It is the precise moment where motion stops and control begins, whether it is a physical object, a criminal, or a fleeting piece of information. It carries a feeling of alertness and reaction.

Countable when referring to the physical act of grabbing something or a specific hidden trick. Uncountable when referring to the total amount of fish harvested in a single trip.

Meanings

Transitive Verb
[someone][something]

To intercept and hold something that has been thrown or is falling

"He managed to catch the ball mid-air."

Transitive Verb
[someone][something]

To capture or seize someone or something by force or trickery

"The police worked for months to catch the thief."

Transitive Verb
[something]

To notice or hear something briefly or partially

"I didn't quite catch what you said."

Transitive Verb
[someone]

To contract a contagious disease

"Many students catch a cold during the winter."

Intransitive Verb
[doing]

To arrive at a place or reach a destination in time for a transport

"We need to hurry to catch the 9:00 AM train."

Noun
[null]

A hidden difficulty or a drawback in an apparently ideal situation

"The deal seems too good to be true; there must be a catch."

Noun
[null]

The act of capturing something or the amount captured

"The fishermen returned with a huge catch of salmon."

Last Updated: May 27, 2026Report an Error