mindmap root((夺取)) appropriate suggests making something one's own or converting to one's own use without authority or with questionable right: just ~d the tools meant to be shared by all. preempt implies beforehandedness in taking something desired or needed by others: news of the crisis ~ed much of the regular programming. arrogate implies insolence, presumption, or exclusion of others in seizing rights, powers, or functions: White House staffers ~ed powers belonging to cabinet members. usurp implies unlawful or unwarranted intrusion into the place of another and seizure of what is his by custom, right, or law: her new stepmother had ~ed her place in the household. confiscate always implies seizure through exercise of authority: customs officers ~ all contraband.