catch a cab

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "catch a cab" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of hailing or getting a taxi for transportation. Example: "After the meeting, I decided to catch a cab to the airport to avoid the traffic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

He got out and said he would catch a cab to his house.

The Washington Post

A surfboard is the most desirable accouterment, but that makes it tough to catch a cab.

The New York Times - Style

Arrive by train at Darsham, and catch a cab the few miles to the beach.

The Guardian - Travel

As she left, she asked a reporter where to catch a cab back to Pennsylvania Station.

The New York Times

West Street is open, making it possible once again to catch a cab uptown.

The New York Times

I threw a few things into a bag, and then ran outside, hoping to catch a cab.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

We caught a cab.

The New York Times - Magazine

Rajeev and I went outside and caught a cab.

The New Yorker

The two caught a cab to the nearest hospital.

The New York Times

After the sedative was administered, Leslie caught a cab.

The New Yorker

Tom Brace heroically catches a cab for the Millers.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "catch a cab" to describe the action of finding and getting into a taxi, especially when narrating an event or giving instructions. Consider the context to ensure it aligns with the desired level of formality.

Common error

While "catch a cab" is widely understood, be mindful of regional preferences. In some areas, "taxi" might be more common than "cab". Use the term most familiar to your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "catch a cab" functions as a common idiomatic expression used to describe the action of hailing or finding a taxi. As Ludwig AI points out, the expression is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

12%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "catch a cab" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase for describing the action of finding and getting into a taxi. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in diverse writing contexts. While generally neutral in tone, context dictates the appropriateness of use. Several alternatives exist, such as "take a cab" or "hail a cab", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. While 'catch a cab' is prevalent in news and media, it's crucial to consider regional dialect and audience formality for best communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Get a taxi

More general term; implies obtaining a taxi by any means.

Take a cab

Indicates using a taxi for transportation.

Hail a cab

Specifically refers to signaling a taxi on the street.

Grab a cab

Implies quickly obtaining a taxi, often in a busy situation.

Find a taxi

Focuses on the search for an available taxi.

Flag down a cab

Similar to "hail a cab", emphasizing the waving motion.

Call a taxi

Refers to ordering a taxi via phone or app.

Secure a taxi

Implies effort in obtaining a taxi, often when demand is high.

Snag a cab

Informal; suggests successfully obtaining a taxi amidst competition.

Pick up a taxi

Focuses on selecting and boarding a specific taxi.

FAQs

What's the difference between "catch a cab" and "take a cab"?

"Catch a cab" emphasizes the action of finding and hailing a taxi, while "take a cab" focuses on using a taxi for transportation. Both are generally interchangeable.

Are there more formal alternatives to "catch a cab"?

While "catch a cab" is suitable for most situations, you might consider "hire a taxi" or simply "take a taxi" in more formal contexts.

Is it correct to say "catch a taxi" instead of "catch a cab"?

Yes, "catch a taxi" is perfectly acceptable and often used interchangeably with "catch a cab". The choice depends on personal preference or regional usage.

How can I avoid sounding too informal when using "catch a cab" in professional writing?

To maintain a professional tone, ensure the surrounding language is also formal. You can also opt for alternatives like "arrange transportation by taxi" depending on the context.