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Grasp - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Grasp means to hold something firmly with the hand or to understand something clearly. It can refer to physical grip or mental comprehension, as in She has a good grasp of the topic.

grasp

/ɡræsp/ /ɡrɑːsp/

Definition:

To seize and hold firmly, or to understand something clearly.

Synonyms:

grip, clutch, comprehend, understand, seize

Part of Speech:

verb, noun

Antonyms:

release, misunderstand

Common Collocations:

firm grasp, basic grasp, grasp the concept, grasp the opportunity, lose one's grasp

Derivatives:

grasping, grasped, grasper

Usage Tips:

Use "grasp" for physical holding or mental understanding; ensure context clarifies the meaning.

Common Phrases:

get a grip on something, within someone's grasp, grasp at straws

Etymology:

From Old English "græppian," meaning to seize or grip; related to Dutch "grijpen" and German "greifen."

Examples:

  • 1. She couldn’t grasp the complicated math problem.
  • 2. He reached out to grasp the rope tightly.
  • 3. The toddler tried to grasp the toy but dropped it.
  • 4. She has a good grasp of French grammar.

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