tase: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Informal (though common in news reporting), Technical (law enforcement).
Quick answer
What does “tase” mean?
To use a Taser (electrical weapon) to stun or incapacitate someone.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To use a Taser (electrical weapon) to stun or incapacitate someone.
To immobilize or control a person by discharging an electroshock weapon. Often implies a law enforcement or control context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word originates from the American product 'Taser', but the verb is used in both varieties. No significant spelling or grammatical differences.
Connotations
In both contexts, it strongly connotes law enforcement, restraint, and the use of non-lethal force. Can be controversial.
Frequency
More frequent in American English news media due to higher visibility of Taser use in US policing. Gaining traction in UK media.
Grammar
How to Use “tase” in a Sentence
[Subject: person/authority] tase [Object: person][Object: person] get tased by [Subject: person/authority]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “tase” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The PCSO warned the man before he was tased.
- Guidelines state when an officer may legally tase someone.
American English
- The cop had to tase the aggressive suspect.
- They threatened to tase him if he didn't drop the knife.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in criminology, law, or sociology papers discussing police tactics.
Everyday
Used in news reports and discussions about police encounters.
Technical
Standard term in law enforcement and security training manuals.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “tase”
- Confusing 'tase' with 'tease' in spelling and pronunciation.
- Using it for any kind of shock (e.g., electric fence).
- Capitalizing it (it's a verb from a trademark).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a fully established verb in modern English, derived from the trademark 'Taser'. It is recognized by major dictionaries.
It is pronounced /teɪz/, exactly like 'tease'.
Yes, particularly in journalistic, legal, or academic contexts discussing law enforcement actions.
A 'stun gun' requires direct contact, while a Taser (and thus 'tase') typically shoots probes. 'Tase' specifically implies using a Taser-brand weapon or similar projectile electroshock device.
To use a Taser (electrical weapon) to stun or incapacitate someone.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
TASE = 'Taser' minus the 'r'. Think: 'The officer used his Taser to TASE the individual.'
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTROL IS ELECTRICAL SUBDUAL (e.g., 'He was tamed/controlled by the electric shock').
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'to tase'?