Top 46 Slang For Capture – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to capturing the perfect moment, having the right lingo can make all the difference. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just looking to up your social media game, knowing the latest slang for capture is key. Let us guide you through the trendiest terms that will have you snapping and sharing like a pro in no time. Get ready to level up your photography game with our curated list of must-know capture slang.

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1. Bag

To capture or catch something or someone. “Bag” is often used figuratively to mean achieving a goal or successfully completing a task.

For example, a hunter might say, “I managed to bag a deer on my hunting trip.”
In a sports context, a coach might say, “Our team needs to bag a win in the next game.”
A person celebrating a successful project might exclaim, “We bagged that presentation!”

2. Nail

To capture or apprehend someone. “Nail” is often used to imply successfully capturing a person who has committed a crime or is wanted by authorities.

For instance, a detective might say, “We finally nailed the suspect after months of investigation.”
In a crime drama, a police officer might say, “We’re going to nail that criminal and bring them to justice.”
A news headline might read, “Police nail notorious drug dealer in major bust.”

3. Hook

To capture or ensnare something or someone. “Hook” is often used to describe successfully capturing or tricking a person into a situation they cannot escape from.

For example, a spy might say, “I managed to hook the enemy agent and gather valuable information.”
In a suspenseful novel, a character might say, “The killer set a trap to hook their next victim.”
A person describing a successful plan might say, “We hooked the target and secured the deal.”

4. Snag

To quickly and unexpectedly capture or seize something or someone. “Snag” is often used to describe a swift and successful capture.

For instance, a pickpocket might say, “I managed to snag their wallet without them noticing.”
In a game of tag, a player might exclaim, “I snagged you! You’re it!”
A person describing a successful negotiation might say, “We snagged a great deal on that car.”

5. Net

To capture or catch something or someone. “Net” is often used to describe successfully capturing a target or achieving a goal.

For example, a fisherman might say, “I managed to net a big catch on my fishing trip.”
In a business context, a salesperson might say, “We netted a new client with our impressive pitch.”
A person celebrating a personal achievement might say, “I finally netted that promotion I’ve been working towards.”

6. Grab

To grab something means to seize or take hold of it quickly and forcefully. The term can also be used figuratively to mean to obtain or acquire something quickly and easily.

For example, a police officer might say, “I managed to grab the suspect before he could escape.”
In a conversation about shopping, someone might say, “I grabbed a great deal on that new dress.”
A person discussing a sports game might exclaim, “Did you see that player grab the ball out of the air? What a catch!”

7. Land

In the context of capture, “land” refers to successfully capturing or securing someone or something. The term is often used when discussing capturing a criminal or winning a difficult battle.

For instance, a hunter might say, “I landed a big buck during hunting season.”
In a military context, a soldier might report, “We successfully landed the enemy’s leader and took him into custody.”
A person talking about a difficult negotiation might say, “After weeks of back-and-forth, we finally landed the big contract.”

8. Pinch

To pinch someone means to take them into custody, typically for a minor offense or violation. The term is often used informally to refer to a quick and easy capture.

For example, a police officer might say, “We managed to pinch the suspect as he was trying to flee.”
In a conversation about a shoplifter, someone might comment, “The store security guard pinched the thief as soon as he walked out.”
A person discussing a prank gone wrong might say, “I got pinched by the police for pulling that stunt.”

9. Collar

To collar someone means to apprehend or catch them, typically in the act of committing a crime or engaging in suspicious activity. The term is often used in law enforcement contexts.

For instance, a police officer might say, “We collared the suspect as he was trying to break into a car.”
In a discussion about a notorious criminal, someone might comment, “It took years for the police to finally collar him.”
A person talking about a successful investigation might say, “The detective collared the culprit after gathering all the evidence.”

10. Corral

To corral someone means to round them up or confine them, often in a controlled or restricted area. The term is often used in situations where a group of individuals or animals need to be captured or contained.

For example, a rancher might say, “We corralled the cattle into the pen for branding.”
In a conversation about a prison escape, someone might comment, “The authorities managed to corral the escaped inmates and bring them back to the facility.”
A person discussing a protest might say, “The police used barricades to corral the demonstrators and prevent them from entering certain areas.”

11. Snare

To capture or catch something or someone using a snare, which is a device consisting of a noose or loop of wire, rope, or other material. The term “snare” can also be used metaphorically to describe capturing or catching someone’s attention or interest.

For example, a hunter might say, “I managed to snare a rabbit in my trap.”
In a discussion about music, someone might say, “This song really snared my attention.”
A person might use the term in a figurative sense, saying, “She snared his heart with her enchanting smile.”

12. Round up

To gather or collect a group of people or animals together, often with the intention of capturing or controlling them. The term “round up” is commonly used in situations where individuals or groups need to be brought together for a specific purpose.

For instance, a cowboy might say, “Let’s round up the cattle and bring them back to the ranch.”
In a discussion about law enforcement, someone might say, “The police conducted a round up of suspected criminals in the area.”
A person organizing a social event might say, “We need to round up all the volunteers for the charity event.”

13. Bagged

To successfully capture or apprehend someone or something. The term “bagged” is often used to describe the act of capturing or catching a person, animal, or object, similar to putting it in a bag.

For example, a detective might say, “We finally bagged the suspect after weeks of investigation.”
In a conversation about hunting, someone might say, “I bagged a deer during the hunting season.”
A person discussing a successful business deal might say, “We managed to bag a big client.”

14. Nailed

To successfully capture or apprehend someone or something. The term “nailed” is often used metaphorically to describe a successful capture or accomplishment.

For instance, a police officer might say, “We nailed the thief and recovered the stolen goods.”
In a discussion about sports, someone might say, “He nailed the game-winning shot in the final seconds.”
A person might use the term in a figurative sense, saying, “She nailed the presentation and impressed the entire audience.”

15. Hooked

To capture or entrap someone or something, often by using a hook or similar device. The term “hooked” can also be used metaphorically to describe capturing or captivating someone’s attention or interest.

For example, a fisherman might say, “I hooked a big fish and reeled it in.”
In a conversation about addiction, someone might say, “He finally got hooked on drugs and couldn’t break free.”
A person discussing a captivating book might say, “The story had me hooked from the first chapter.”

16. Snagged

When something is “snagged,” it means that it was caught or captured. The term is often used to describe capturing something unexpectedly or quickly.

For example, “I snagged a great deal on that shirt during the sale.”
In a fishing context, someone might say, “I snagged a big fish on my first cast.”
Another usage could be, “He snagged the last slice of pizza before anyone else could get to it.”

17. Netted

To “net” something means to trap or capture it using a net. The term is commonly used in sports or activities that involve catching or capturing objects.

For instance, “The soccer player netted a goal with a powerful shot.”
In a fishing context, someone might say, “We netted a dozen fish during our trip.”
Another usage could be, “The team netted a victory in the final seconds of the game.”

18. Grabbed

When something is “grabbed,” it means that it was seized or captured quickly and forcefully. The term is often used to describe taking hold of something or someone.

For example, “She grabbed the opportunity to showcase her talent.”
In a crime context, someone might say, “The thief grabbed the purse and ran.”
Another usage could be, “He grabbed the microphone and started singing.”

19. Landed

To “land” something means to secure or capture it, often after a successful effort or action. The term is commonly used in sports or activities that involve capturing or obtaining a target.

For instance, “The basketball player landed a three-point shot.”
In a job context, someone might say, “I landed a new position at a prestigious company.”
Another usage could be, “She landed the lead role in the school play.”

20. Pinched

To “pinch” something means to nab or capture it, often in a sneaky or stealthy manner. The term is commonly used in a law enforcement or crime context.

For example, “The police officer pinched the suspect during a sting operation.”
In a theft context, someone might say, “The shoplifter was pinched by store security.”
Another usage could be, “He pinched a cookie from the jar when no one was looking.”

21. Collared

This term is commonly used to describe someone who has been apprehended or caught by law enforcement. It can also refer to capturing an animal or bringing someone under control.

For example, a police officer might say, “We collared the suspect after a high-speed chase.”
In a discussion about hunting, someone might mention, “I collared a deer during my last hunting trip.”
A journalist reporting on a criminal case might write, “The police collared the fugitive after a week-long manhunt.”

22. Corraled

This slang term is often used to describe the act of gathering or trapping someone or something, similar to herding livestock into a corral. It can also be used metaphorically to describe bringing a group of people together or keeping them in one place.

For instance, during a protest, a police officer might say, “We corraled the demonstrators into a designated area.”
In a discussion about controlling a situation, someone might say, “We corraled all the evidence to build a strong case.”
A teacher might instruct their students, “Let’s corral everyone into the auditorium for the assembly.”

23. Snared

To snare means to catch or trap someone or something, often using a snare, a type of simple noose or trap. In slang, it is used to describe capturing or catching someone or something, either physically or metaphorically.

For example, a hunter might say, “I snared a rabbit for dinner.”
In a discussion about a criminal investigation, someone might mention, “The police snared the suspect using surveillance footage.”
A sports commentator might say, “The goalkeeper snared the ball before it crossed the goal line.”

24. Rounded up

This slang term is used to describe the act of gathering or collecting people or things, often in a forceful or organized manner. It can refer to capturing or apprehending individuals, as well as bringing together a group of people or items.

For instance, during a police operation, an officer might say, “We rounded up several suspects in connection with the crime.”
In a discussion about a social event, someone might say, “Let’s round up the team and head to the party.”
A rancher might mention, “We rounded up the cattle for branding and vaccination.”

25. Pin down

This slang term is often used to describe the act of capturing or immobilizing someone or something, similar to pinning something down with a physical force. It can also be used metaphorically to describe gaining control or getting a clear understanding of a situation.

For example, a wrestler might say, “I pinned down my opponent to win the match.”
In a discussion about a challenging problem, someone might say, “We need to pin down the root cause before finding a solution.”
A journalist investigating a story might write, “After weeks of research, I finally pinned down the elusive source of the leak.”

26. Seize

To capture or take control of something or someone forcefully or suddenly.

For example, “The police seized the suspect as he tried to flee.”
In a military context, one might say, “The soldiers seized the enemy base and secured valuable intelligence.”
In a business context, someone might mention, “The company was seized by the government due to financial misconduct.”

27. Nailed it

To successfully capture or accomplish a task or goal.

For instance, if someone successfully captures a moment in a photograph, they might say, “Nailed it!”
A person might exclaim, “I finally finished that difficult puzzle. Nailed it!”
In a sports context, a player might say, “I scored the winning goal. Nailed it!”

28. Pinned down

To capture or immobilize someone or something in a specific location or position.

For example, in a military operation, a soldier might say, “We pinned down the enemy forces with heavy gunfire.”
In a conversation about a challenging situation, someone might say, “I felt pinned down by all the responsibilities.”
In a wrestling match, a competitor might say, “I pinned down my opponent and won the match.”

29. Corralled

To capture or gather a group of people or animals in a specific area or enclosure.

For instance, a rancher might say, “We corralled the cattle into the pen for branding.”
In a discussion about organizing a team, someone might mention, “We corralled all the members for a group meeting.”
In a police operation, an officer might say, “We corralled the protesters and maintained order.”

30. Seized

To capture or take control of something or someone, often by legal or authoritative means.

For example, “The police seized the illegal drugs during a raid.”
In a discussion about government actions, someone might say, “The dictatorship seized power and suppressed dissent.”
In a business context, someone might mention, “The company’s assets were seized due to bankruptcy.”

31. Gotcha

This slang term is used to indicate that someone has been caught or captured. It is often used in a playful or lighthearted manner.

For example, if someone sneaks up behind you and surprises you, they might say, “Gotcha!”
In a game of tag, one person might say, “I gotcha!” after successfully tagging someone.
If someone catches a friend off guard with a prank, they might exclaim, “Gotcha!”

32. Bust

To “bust” someone means to apprehend or arrest them, typically by law enforcement officers. This term is commonly used in reference to capturing criminals or suspects.

For instance, a police officer might say, “We finally busted the leader of the drug ring.”
In a crime drama, a detective might declare, “We’re going to bust this operation wide open.”
If someone is caught shoplifting, a store security guard might say, “I’m going to bust you for stealing.”

33. Snatch

To “snatch” someone means to quickly and forcefully take hold of them, often with the intention of capturing or taking something from them.

For example, if someone tries to steal your purse and you stop them, you might say, “Don’t even think about snatching my bag!”
In a game of tag, one person might say, “I’m going to snatch you!” before trying to tag someone.
If someone quickly grabs a toy from another person’s hand, they might say, “I snatched it before they could react.”

34. Trap

In slang terms, to “trap” someone means to catch or capture them, often in a situation where they are unable to escape or get away.

For instance, if someone sets up a prank where a bucket of water falls on someone’s head, they might say, “You just got trapped!”
In a game of hide-and-seek, if someone finds a person hiding, they might say, “I trapped you!”
If someone is caught in a difficult or embarrassing situation, they might exclaim, “I’m trapped!”

35. Catch

To “catch” someone means to capture or apprehend them, often in the context of law enforcement or capturing a criminal.

For example, a police officer might say, “We need to catch this fugitive before they escape.”
In a spy thriller, a character might be tasked with catching a spy who is trying to steal classified information.
If someone successfully captures an opponent in a game, they might declare, “I caught you!”

36. Busted

This term is commonly used to describe someone who has been apprehended or arrested by the police. It can also refer to being caught in the act of doing something illegal.

For example, “The suspect was busted for drug possession.”
In a conversation about crime, someone might say, “If you break the law, you’re bound to get busted eventually.”
A person discussing their own experience might admit, “I got busted for shoplifting when I was a teenager.”

37. Snatched

This slang term is often used to describe someone being quickly and unexpectedly captured or taken into custody.

For instance, “The police snatched the suspect before he could escape.”
In a discussion about a successful police operation, someone might say, “They snatched the criminal right out of his hideout.”
A person sharing a personal experience might say, “I was snatched by the authorities while trying to flee the country.”

38. Trapped

This term refers to being caught or unable to escape a situation, often used to describe being captured by law enforcement.

For example, “The suspect felt trapped as the police closed in on him.”
In a conversation about a police stakeout, someone might say, “They set up surveillance to trap the suspect.”
A person discussing a failed escape attempt might say, “I thought I could outrun them, but I ended up trapped.”

39. Caught

This term is a general slang term used to describe being seized or apprehended, often by law enforcement.

For instance, “The thief was caught red-handed.”
In a discussion about crime prevention, someone might say, “The goal is to catch criminals before they can cause harm.”
A person sharing a personal experience might say, “I was caught by the police while trying to break into a car.”

40. Bagging

This term refers to successfully capturing or apprehending someone or something.

For example, “The police were successful in bagging the suspect.”
In a conversation about a successful arrest, someone might say, “They finally got him. Bagging a criminal like that is a big win.”
A person discussing a successful capture might say, “Bagging the fugitive was the result of months of investigation.”

41. Corralling

This term refers to the act of gathering and controlling a group of people or animals, often in a confined area. It can be used metaphorically to describe the process of gathering or controlling information or ideas.

For example, a rancher might say, “We spent the morning corralling the cattle into the pen.”
In a discussion about managing a project, someone might say, “We need to start corralling all the necessary documents and resources.”
A person describing a political campaign might say, “The candidate has been corralling support from various interest groups.”

42. Collaring

This term refers to the act of capturing and restraining someone or something, often by putting a collar or similar device around their neck. It can be used metaphorically to describe the act of capturing or controlling someone or something.

For instance, a police officer might say, “We collared the suspect and took him into custody.”
In a discussion about wildlife conservation, someone might say, “We need to collar the animals to track their movements.”
A person describing a successful business deal might say, “We managed to collar the biggest client in the industry.”

43. Rounding up

This term refers to the act of gathering and capturing a group of people or animals, often by herding them together. It can be used metaphorically to describe the act of gathering or capturing things or ideas.

For example, a cowboy might say, “We spent the day rounding up the cattle and bringing them back to the ranch.”
In a discussion about organizing a team, someone might say, “Let’s start rounding up all the necessary resources and personnel.”
A person describing a successful marketing campaign might say, “We managed to round up a large number of new customers.”

44. Trapping

This term refers to the act of catching and confining someone or something in a trap or similar device. It can be used metaphorically to describe the act of catching or confining someone or something in a difficult or challenging situation.

For instance, a hunter might say, “I set up a trap to catch the wild animals.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “I feel like I’m trapped in a toxic relationship.”
A person describing a difficult situation at work might say, “I feel trapped in a job that offers no opportunities for growth.”

45. Netting

This term refers to the act of capturing and securing someone or something using a net or similar device. It can be used metaphorically to describe the act of capturing or securing something valuable or important.

For example, a fisherman might say, “We spent the day netting fish in the river.”
In a discussion about cybersecurity, someone might say, “We need to improve our defenses to prevent hackers from netting our sensitive data.”
A person describing a successful business venture might say, “We managed to net a significant amount of profit from the deal.”

46. Seizing

This term refers to capturing or apprehending someone or something. It can be used in various contexts, such as law enforcement or sports.

For example, a police officer might say, “We’re closing in on the suspect and hope to seize him soon.”
In a game of tag, a player might exclaim, “I got you! I’m seizing you!”
A wildlife photographer might describe capturing a perfect shot of a rare animal as “seizing the moment.”