to arrest, to catch, to seize

JLPT N3 10 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Meaning and Usage

The character (bǔ) primarily means "to catch," "to seize," or "to arrest." It is commonly used in contexts involving capturing animals, criminals, or objects.

Common Collocations

  • 捕获 (bǔhuò): to capture or seize, often used for animals or fugitives.
  • 捕捉 (bǔzhuō): to catch or capture, frequently used in media or scientific contexts.
  • (bǔ yú): to catch fish.

Usage Notes

is a formal verb often used in news reports, police or hunting contexts. It implies a successful act of catching or arresting. It is different from (zhuō), which can also mean "to catch" but is more colloquial and often used for smaller or more casual captures, like catching a bug or a ball.

Common Confusion

Avoid confusing with . is more formal and often used for official or serious captures, while is more casual and everyday. For example, 捕捉罪犯 (to capture a criminal) sounds more formal and official than 罪犯.

Example Sentences

The police successfully caught the fugitive.

He caught several fish with a net.

This movie tells the story of police capturing criminals.