caught (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /kɔːt/

Definition

Past tense and past participle of 'catch', meaning to capture or apprehend someone or something that is moving away or trying to escape.

Examples

• The fisherman proudly displayed the large fish he had caught.

• She was caught in a sudden downpour without an umbrella.

• The thief was caught trying to steal a valuable painting.

How to Use caught

caught fire (collocation)

To start burning. — "The curtains caught fire from a dropped cigarette."

caught sight of (collocation)

To see something or someone briefly. — "She caught sight of a familiar face in the crowd."

caught my eye (collocation)

To attract someone's attention. — "The unusual painting caught my eye."

caught up in (prepositional phrase)

To become involved in something, often against one's will. — "He got caught up in the protest and was arrested."

caught between (prepositional phrase)

To be in a difficult situation with two opposing choices or forces. — "She was caught between her loyalty to her family and her career."

Synonyms of caught

Words with a similar meaning to caught:

• grabbed
• seized
• captured
• apprehended

Antonyms of caught

Words with the opposite meaning to caught:

• released
• escaped

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