Translation guide
How to express 'catch hold of' in Japanese, covering physically grabbing something, seizing an opportunity, and figurative grasping.
To take hold of an object with your hand, often quickly or firmly.
To take advantage of a favorable moment or situation.
A common set phrase meaning 'seize an opportunity'. Uses 掴む metaphorically.
彼はそのチャンスを掴んだ。
He caught hold of that opportunity.
To understand or comprehend something abstract.
The standard verb for 'understand'. While not a direct translation of 'catch hold of', it conveys the idea of grasping a concept.
彼はその概念をすぐに理解した。
He quickly caught hold of the concept.
The English phrase 'catch hold of' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Choose the verb based on the context: 掴む for physical grabbing, 捕まえる for catching moving things, and 理解する/把握する for understanding.
The most common verb for grabbing or seizing something with your hand. Can be used for both concrete objects and abstract things like chances.
彼はロープを掴んだ。
He caught hold of the rope.
チャンスを掴む。
Catch hold of an opportunity.
Means to catch or capture, often used for living things or moving objects. Implies stopping something that is trying to escape.
逃げる猫を捕まえた。
I caught hold of the escaping cat.
To grip or hold tightly in one's hand. Focuses on the act of holding firmly rather than the initial catching.
彼女は私の手を握った。
She caught hold of my hand.
Literally 'take in hand', used when you pick up or take hold of something, often to examine or use it.
彼は本を手に取った。
He caught hold of the book.
More formal expression for seizing an opportunity. 捉える means 'to capture' or 'to grasp'.
ビジネスチャンスを捉える。
Catch hold of a business opportunity.
Means 'to grasp' or 'to comprehend' a situation or information. Often used in business contexts.
状況を把握する。
Catch hold of the situation.