GRASP AT Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "grasp at" refers to the act of reaching for or attempting to acquire something desperately, usually in a hurried or uncoordinated manner. It implies a sense of urgency, desperation, or a need to seize upon or gain control of something quickly.
In a literal sense, "grasp at" can describe physically extending one's hand or reaching out in an attempt to catch or hold on to something that is slipping away or out of reach. This action typically indicates a last-ditch effort to secure or retain something before it is lost entirely. Metaphorically, "grasp at" is used to convey a similar concept, but in the abstract sense, where individuals or groups are clamoring to obtain or retain control, power, opportunities, or desired outcomes.
The notion of "grasping at straws" also falls under the broader usage of "grasp at." It signifies the act of desperately trying to find a solution or hope amidst a dire situation where options are limited, and success seems improbable. People who are grasping at straws are perceived as making frantic, haphazard attempts out of a sense of desperation or a last resort.
Overall, "grasp at" reflects an eager, often frantic, and sometimes uncoordinated effort or attempt to secure or control something before it slips away or becomes unattainable.
Common Misspellings for GRASP AT
- graspt
- graspet
- frasp at
- vrasp at
- brasp at
- hrasp at
- yrasp at
- trasp at
- geasp at
- gdasp at
- gfasp at
- gtasp at
- g5asp at
- g4asp at
- grzsp at
- grssp at
- grwsp at
- grqsp at
- graap at
- grazp at
Etymology of GRASP AT
The etymology of the word "grasp at" lies in the Old English language. The verb "grasp" originated from the Old English word "græppian", which meant to grip or seize something firmly with the hand. It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "grappendaz", from the Proto-Indo-European root "*ghrebh-" meaning to seize or grab. The preposition "at" is a separate word that signifies the target or direction of the action. When combined, "grasp at" signifies the act of reaching out or making an effort to obtain or understand something.
Idioms with the word GRASP AT
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grasp at sm or sth
The idiom "grasp at someone or something" means to try desperately to obtain or accomplish something, often with little chance of success. It refers to making a desperate or hasty effort to get hold of something or to achieve a particular goal.
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grasp at a straw
The idiom "grasp at a straw" means to desperately seek a solution or hope, often in a futile or last-ditch effort, when faced with a difficult or seemingly hopeless situation. It alludes to a drowning person trying to save themselves by holding onto a straw, despite the fact that it cannot provide any actual support or help.
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grasp at straws
The idiom "grasp at straws" means to make a desperate attempt at finding a solution or explanation when facing a difficult or hopeless situation, even if the effort is unlikely to be successful. It refers to the act of clutching onto any available possibility, similar to grasping at tiny, insignificant straws in the hope of finding support or resolution.
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grasp at someone or something
The idiom "grasp at someone or something" means to desperately or eagerly try to obtain, understand, or achieve someone or something. It implies a sense of urgency, often suggesting that the person or thing being pursued is elusive or difficult to attain.
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grasp at
To try to obtain or achieve something, often in a desperate or uncontrolled manner.
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clutch/grasp at straws
To clutch/grasp at straws means to make a desperate or futile attempt to find a solution or to save a situation that is already in a desperate state.
Similar spelling words for GRASP AT
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