Seize on Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Eagerness Implied Shows enthusiasm or a strong desire to use what's presented for one’s own benefit. She seized on the job vacancy to boost her career. Pro Tip 2/3Response to Events Often used when reacting to new, sometimes unexpected, events. Journalists seized on the breaking news to start their reports. Pro Tip 3/3Possibly Opportunistic Can suggest using the situation to one's advantage, sometimes viewed negatively. Opponents seized on the leader's mistake as proof of incompetence.