capture - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
capture Word Meanings
- to take control of something
- to record something carefully
- to attract and hold attention
capture Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
capture Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkæptʃə/
US
/ˈkæptʃɚ/
capture Word Etymology
capture = cap- (take) + -ture (result of) from Latin 'captura'. The image of a net snaring something helps remember it, as does the idea of a photograph capturing a moment.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set my posture, tighten my grip, and push the shutter to wake the moment. The scene shifts as the lens changes focus and the picture starts to hold onto light. It feels like steering attention: I pull the frame toward me, I keep the subject in view, and the sense of effort sweeps through my shoulders. Later, I notice how this same pressure shows up when I capture a memory, a conversation, or a trend—I decide what to keep, what to let go, and what to show.
Real Context
Capture has several closely related meanings in English. It can mean to take control of something by force or strategy, as in capturing a fortress or market share. It also means to record something carefully, as when a photographer captures a moment on film or a researcher captures data in a notebook. Finally, capture can describe attracting and holding attention, for example a striking image or a compelling idea can capture an audience. These senses share a core idea of taking hold, but the appropriate verb choice and collocations differ by context, so learners should note which sense fits each situation and which prepositions or objects accompany capture.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Distinguish the three main senses: control, record, and attract.
- 2) Pair capture with the correct object: capture a moment, capture data, capture attention.
- 3) Mind collocations like capture the flag or capture someone's attention.
- 4) Use the right tense for the context (captured, capturing).
- 5) Be mindful of prepositions and passive/active voice cues.
Common Misconceptions
- Capture always means physically grabbing something; it often means recording or attracting attention too.
- Capture is not the same as simply 'catch' in all contexts.
- You can capture attention without capturing people.
- Camera synonyms: 'record' or 'take a photo' are not interchangeable in every sense.
- Misusing 'capture' with passive voice can sound odd in some contexts.
Thinking Differences
Capturing in English blends literal and metaphorical use; learners must map each sense to distinct verbs and collocations, which can feel odd when translating directly.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses first: control, record, attract.
- Practice collocations: capture a moment, capture data, capture attention.
- Notice subtle tense shifts: captured vs capturing.
- Differentiate with related verbs: seize, grab, record, document.
- Use visuals to remember: think of a net catching something for the metaphor.
- Check prepositions and objects that commonly follow capture.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'capture' correctly?
A.She tried to capture the bird with a camera.
B.He captured all the water in the bucket.
C.The students captured the difficult lesson quickly.
D.They captured the ball and threw it back.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'capture'?
A.Free
B.Obtain
C.Escape
D.Forget
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'capture'?
A.Protect
B.Release
C.Connect
D.Destroy
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'capture'?
A.They sailed across the ocean on a boat.
B.He ran after the butterfly in the garden.
C.She caught the beautiful sunset in a photo.
D.The team played a competitive game of soccer.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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