WordLens

apprehend

1 of 1verb
/ˌæp.rɪ.ˈhɛnd/
Forms:apprehends,apprehending,apprehended,apprehended
1

to arrest someone

transitive
  • The security guards were quick to apprehend the trespasser before he could escape.
  • With limited evidence, it was challenging for detectives to apprehend the mastermind behind the scheme.
  • The decision to apprehend the suspect was made after careful surveillance and analysis.
  • The authorities successfully apprehended individuals connected to a major drug trafficking ring.
  • Special units are currently apprehending suspects involved in financial fraud.
2

to mentally grasp or understand

transitive
  • The teacher used various examples and analogies to help the students apprehend the complex scientific theory.
  • It took a while for the team to apprehend the intricacies of the new software system.
  • After numerous explanations, the students finally apprehended the historical context of the events.
  • With practice, the participants apprehended the nuances of the foreign language during the language course.
  • The workshop aimed to help participants apprehend the fundamental principles of effective leadership.
3

to expect something unpleasant or frightening to happen

transitive
  • She apprehended the results of the test with growing anxiety.
  • He apprehended the journey ahead, worried about the possible dangers.
  • The villagers apprehended the coming storm, preparing for the worst.
  • She couldn’t help but apprehend the consequences of her risky decision.
  • The soldier apprehended the battle, unsure of what awaited him on the front lines.
Synonyms: