by seizing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by seizing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of taking control or possession of something, often in a forceful or assertive manner. Example: "The company improved its market position by seizing opportunities in emerging technologies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The tigress responded by seizing the boy by the shoulders.

Independent

By seizing the day, you may avoid the need to do damage control in the future.

Harvard University

A small group of people became fabulously wealthy by seizing the Soviet state's assets.

Princeton University

Mr Mehsud's followers retaliated by seizing a small town, and cutting off the road to Waziristan.

The Economist

By seizing their oil fields, then, nations reduce the expected take from their resources.

The Economist

By seizing Crimea, he has rekindled the love lost between the transatlantic allies.

The Economist

She accused critics of "an opportunistic attempt" to score political points by seizing on Japan's crisis.

The New York Times

When Rupert took refuge with the Portuguese at Lisbon, Blake retaliated by seizing several Portuguese ships.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One way coup makers have done this is by seizing the main radio broadcast facility.

The Washington Post

Khartoum responded by seizing oil tankers carrying South Sudanese oil and imposing economic blockades.

The Washington Post

Lived graciously, modestly, favoring every moment by seizing the day; carpe diem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by seizing" to clearly indicate a method of achieving a goal or result, particularly when control or possession is involved. This clarifies the cause-and-effect relationship in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "by seizing" in overly passive constructions where the actor is unclear. Ensure the sentence clearly identifies who is doing the seizing for greater clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by seizing" functions as a prepositional phrase acting as an adverbial modifier. According to Ludwig AI, it typically indicates the means or method by which an action is carried out. It specifies how something is achieved, emphasizing the act of taking control or possession.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by seizing" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression frequently used to describe how control or possession leads to a specific outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and wide applicability. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal writing. Consider alternatives like "through capturing" or "by taking possession of" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by taking possession of

Focuses on the act of gaining ownership or control of something.

by assuming control of

Highlights the act of taking responsibility and authority over something.

through capturing

Emphasizes the act of taking possession or control, often with a sense of force or skill.

by securing

Emphasizes the act of making something safe or certain, often by taking control of it.

via appropriation

Highlights the act of taking something for one's own use, often without permission or in a formal context.

through acquisition

Focuses on the process of obtaining something, often through purchase or investment.

by commandeering

Suggests taking control of something, often temporarily and for military or public purposes.

through confiscation

Highlights the act of officially seizing property or assets, often by legal authority.

through usurpation

Implies seizing power or authority illegally or by force.

by grabbing

Implies a sudden or forceful act of taking something.

FAQs

How can I use "by seizing" in a sentence?

You can use "by seizing" to explain how someone or something achieved a particular outcome, often involving taking control or possession. For example, "The company improved its market position by seizing opportunities in emerging technologies."

What's a good alternative to "by seizing"?

Depending on the context, you might use phrases like "through capturing", "by taking possession of", or "through acquisition".

Is "by seizing" formal or informal?

"By seizing" is generally neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal writing, although the specific context will determine its appropriateness.

What is the difference between "by seizing" and "by taking advantage of"?

"By seizing" implies a more direct and potentially forceful action of taking control, whereas "by taking advantage of" suggests leveraging an opportunity or situation that already exists.