Word
grasp
Meanings
To take and hold something firmly, especially with the hand.
To understand something clearly, especially an idea or situation that is difficult.
Definition
To grasp something is to take hold of it firmly or to understand an idea clearly.
To grasp can mean to hold something tightly with your hand, often to keep it from slipping or to control it. It can also mean to understand a concept, situation, or point that may be complex or unfamiliar. In both uses, it suggests a strong, clear hold—either physical or mental.
Examples
- I finally grasp what the professor meant by uncertainty, after reviewing the lecture notes twice.
- You need to grasp the railing as you step onto the moving escalator in the crowded station.
- She couldn’t grasp why the team rejected the proposal, even though she had addressed every concern.
- They quickly grasp the main argument, but they still debate the implications for the wider community.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "grasp" (understand) with "grasp" (hold) and use it where "grab" or "understand" would be more natural in context.
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More verbs
- analyze To examine something carefully in order to understand it or explain it.
- scrutinize To scrutinize something is to examine it very carefully and in detail.
- affect To affect something is to influence it or cause it to change.
- allude To allude means to mention or suggest something indirectly without saying it clearly.
- elude To elude someone or something is to avoid being caught, understood, or remembered.