capture
noun
Capture — the forceful taking of property or a person from rightful possession
Definition
The act of forcibly dispossessing an owner of property
In depth
Capture is the act of forcibly dispossessing an owner of property, or, in its more common sense, the act of seizing and confining a person or animal against their will. The word carries inherent drama, often implying pursuit, resistance, and the decisive moment when control finally changes hands through force rather than agreement.
Origin
The word descends from Latin capere, to take or seize, one of the most prolific roots in the entire language, also giving rise to 'captive,' 'capable,' and 'concept.' That fundamental sense of taking hold underlies the word's enduring versatility, capture conceived simply as the decisive act of seizing what was previously beyond one's control.
Usage examples
"The capture of the enemy stronghold marked a turning point in the campaign's overall progress."
"Wildlife researchers tagged the animal during its brief capture before quickly releasing it back into the wild."
"His capture, after months evading authorities, finally brought the lengthy manhunt to a close."
How to use it
Capture is broadly useful across military, wildlife, and criminal justice writing, equally natural describing the forceful taking of property, territory, or a person, the word's drama and finality suiting narrative tension particularly well.
Related concepts
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