to hook

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitive

   To attach or fasten something using a hook, or to catch something with a hook.

   Grammar: Takes an object: hook the fish.

   Patterns

   • hook something
   • hook something onto something

   She hooked the trailer to the back of the truck.

   He hooked a large fish in the river.

   Please hook the rope onto the post.

2. 2verbtransitiveinformal

   To succeed in getting something, especially by attracting interest or attention.

   Grammar: Often used in business or informal contexts: hook a customer.

   Patterns

   • hook a job
   • hook a customer

   The company hopes to hook new investors with its latest product.

   She managed to hook a great role in the film.

3. 3verbtransitive

   To bend something into a curved shape like a hook.

   Grammar: Often used with fingers or arms: hook your finger.

   Patterns

   • hook something around something
   • hook something over something

   He hooked his finger around the handle and pulled.

   She hooked her arm through his as they walked.

Word forms

Common combinations

hook up

They hooked up the printer to the computer.

hook on

The bag hooks on easily to the stroller.

hook into

The device hooks into your phone's system.

left hook

The boxer knocked him out with a left hook.

Synonyms and how they differ

fasten

More general; it means to close or join something securely, while 'hook' specifically uses a hook.

catch

Focuses on capturing something moving, whereas 'hook' often implies using a hook or a curved tool.

Opposites

Word family

hook noun

A curved piece of metal or plastic used for hanging things or catching fish.

hooked adjective

Curved like a hook, or (informal) addicted to something.

Commonly confused: to hook or hooker?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “to hook”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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