Definition

Verb: * To take or grasp something quickly and eagerly, often in a sudden or opportunistic manner.

Usage

This verb describes a swift, often decisive, action of taking possession of something. It implies speed and eagerness, and sometimes a sense of competition or seizing a fleeting opportunity. It is typically used with a direct object (the thing being taken).

Examples

• Shoppers snatched up the last few items on sale.
• He snatched up the phone before the second ring.
• The goalkeeper snatched up the loose ball.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: Can be used for non-physical things, like opportunities or information.
  • The company snatched up the talented engineer as soon as she became available.
  • I snatched up a few useful tips from the lecture.

Variants and Related Words

• Snatch (verb): The base form, meaning to take something quickly or forcibly. "Snatch up" often adds a nuance of lifting or collecting from a surface.
• Grab (verb): A close synonym, though "snatch up" can sound slightly more eager or hurried.

Synonyms

• Seize
• Grab
• Take quickly
• Pluck

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Snatch away: To take something from someone quickly and often forcefully.
  • The wind snatched away her hat.

Verb

1. to grasp hastily or eagerly
   • Before I could stop him the dog snatched the ham bone