seize /siːz/ ► SEE ALLseize on sthseize up●ˈseize on sth ( ˈseize upon sthmore formal) to suddenly show a lot of interest in sth, especially because you can use it to your advantage突然大为关注，一把抓住（可利用的事物）◆The scandal was immediately seized upon by the press. 新闻界立即紧紧盯住了这一丑闻。◆Peter seized eagerly on all opportunities for conversation. 彼得逮谁跟谁聊。SYNpounce on sth[v + prep]●ˌseize ˈup1.if a machine or a part of a machine seizes up, it stops moving or working correctly（机器或部件）停止运转，发生故障，失灵◆The engine seized up after only three weeks. 发动机只用了三个星期就坏了。◆ (figurative) The whole city seized up (= no traffic, etc. was able to move) during the blizzard. 遭受暴风雪袭击期间，全市陷入瘫痪。2.if a part of your body seizes up, it becomes stiff and you are unable to move it easily（身体部位）发僵，变僵硬◆My legs were beginning to seize up and I needed a rest. 我腿麻了，需要休息一下。[v + adv]