catch

//kætʃ//
A2Frequency Level 4Neutral
Visual representation of catch

Verb

catchInfinitive
catchPresent tense
caughtPast tense
caughtPast participle
catchingPresent participle
catchesThird-person singular
1

To intercept and hold (something that has been thrown, propelled, or dropped).

She caught the ball with one hand.

2

To capture or seize, especially after a chase or pursuit.

The police caught the thief after a long chase.

3

To get on or board (a bus, train, or other form of transport) in time.

I ran fast to catch the last train.

4

To become infected with or contract (an illness or disease).

I caught a cold last week.

5

To perceive or notice, especially something fleeting or subtle.

I caught a glimpse of her smile before she turned away.

6

To understand or comprehend (what someone is saying).

I didn't catch what you said. Could you repeat that?

7

To discover or find someone doing something wrong or unexpected.

I caught him stealing money from my wallet.

Noun

catchSingular
catchesPlural
1

An act of catching something, especially a ball.

That was a great catch!

2

Something that has been caught, especially fish.

The fishermen brought in a large catch today.

3

A hidden problem, disadvantage, or trick in an apparently good situation or offer.

The deal sounds great, but what's the catch?

4

A device for fastening or securing something, such as a door or window.

The catch on the window is broken.