mindmap root((垄断)) monopolize the most general term, means to possess or control completely: ~d their attention. engross sometimes implies getting a material control of: ~ a market by buying up available supplies; but more often it implies an unprotested monopolizing of time, attention, or interest: ~ed with a new magazine. absorb is often interchangeable with engross but it tends to carry a hint of submission to pressure rather than ready acceptance: grinding tasks that ~ed her efforts. consume implies a monopolization of one's time, interest, or attention: ~d with a desire to climb every mountain in the range.