つかみ取る

• Reading: つかみとる
• Romaji: tsukamitoru
• Kanji breakdown: 取る (toru) — to take, to acquire
• Pronunciation: /tsɯ.ka.mi.to.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To grab; to seize; to grasp firmly; to take hold of something with determination and effort.

A Group 1 (godan) compound verb combining つかむ (to grasp) and 取る (to take). Used both literally and figuratively — to physically grab something or to seize an opportunity, victory, or position through one's own determined effort. Conveys a sense of decisive, forceful action.

Examples

1. 優勝の栄誉を自らの手でつかみ取った。 He seized the honor of victory with his own hands.
2. 彼は困難な交渉の末に契約をつかみ取った。 After grueling negotiations, he managed to clinch the contract.
3. チャンスをつかみ取るためには準備が必要だ。 Preparation is essential to seize an opportunity when it comes.

Usage Guide

Context: sports, business, personal achievement

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of つかむ (to grasp, to grip) and 取る (to take, to acquire). The doubled emphasis on gripping and taking intensifies the sense of forceful, active acquisition.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal