commandeer
/,kɔmən'diə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Verb:
- To take control or possession of something (especially property or resources) by force or authority, typically for military or official use, often without the owner's consent.
Usage
- The verb "commandeer" is used to describe the act of seizing something, usually by an authority figure like a military officer, government official, or someone in a position of power during an emergency. It implies the use of force or the assertion of authority, overriding normal ownership or rights. It is a transitive verb and requires a direct object (the thing being taken).
Examples
- Verb:
- The army commandeered civilian trucks to transport supplies.
- During the flood, officials commandeered the school gym to use as a shelter.
- The rebels commandeered the radio station to broadcast their message.
Advanced Usage
- "to commandeer something for a purpose": To seize something specifically to use it for a particular objective.
- The general commandeered the hotel for his headquarters.
Variants and Related Words
- Commandeering (gerund/noun): The act or process of taking something by force or authority.
- The commandeering of private boats was necessary for the rescue operation.
Synonyms
- Appropriate: To take something for one's own use, typically without the owner's permission (often formal or legal).
- Confiscate: To take someone's property with authority, often as a penalty.
- Seize: To take hold of suddenly and forcibly.
- Expropriate: (Formal) To take property from its owner for public use or benefit.
Antonyms
- Return: To give back.
- Relinquish: To voluntarily cease to keep or claim; to give up.
- Restore: To bring back or return (something) to its original owner.
Related Phrases/Idioms
- To press into service: This phrase is related in meaning, describing the act of forcing someone or something into use for a particular need, often suddenly.
- With the bridge out, they pressed every available boat into service. (This is similar to commandeering the boats.)
Verb
- take arbitrarily or by force
- The Cubans commandeered the plane and flew it to Miami