grasp 1 of 2

grasp

2 of 2

verb

1
as in to understand
to have a practical understanding of he just doesn't grasp how important it is that he call when he'll be late

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
4

Synonym Chooser

How is the word grasp different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of grasp are clutch, grab, seize, snatch, and take. While all these words mean "to get hold of by or as if by catching up with the hand," grasp stresses a laying hold so as to have firmly in possession.

grasp the handle and pull

When might clutch be a better fit than grasp?

The synonyms clutch and grasp are sometimes interchangeable, but clutch suggests avidity or anxiety in seizing or grasping and may imply less success in holding.

clutching her purse

How are the words grab and snatch related as synonyms of grasp?

Grab implies more roughness or rudeness than snatch.

grabbed roughly by the arm

When is it sensible to use seize instead of grasp?

While in some cases nearly identical to grasp, seize implies a sudden and forcible movement in getting hold of something tangible or an apprehending of something fleeting or elusive when intangible.

seized the suspect

How do snatch and seize relate to one another, in the sense of grasp?

Snatch suggests more suddenness or quickness but less force than seize.

snatched a doughnut and ran

When could take be used to replace grasp?

While the synonyms take and grasp are close in meaning, take is a general term applicable to any manner of getting something into one's possession or control.

take some salad from the bowl

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of grasp
Noun
Republican lawmakers have introduced legislation over the last week that could give the federal government a tighter grasp on some tech platforms, while easing up government scrutiny on artificial intelligence. Kalhan Rosenblatt, NBC news, 17 May 2025 The Knicks literally took this series from them, starting when Mikal Bridges ripped the ball out of Brown’s grasp to end Game 1 and stuffed Tatum to punctuate Game 2. Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 15 May 2025
Verb
Looking down into the crater, with steam still rising from the bottom, my mind struggled to grasp that not that long ago, there had been a whole mountain where now there was just wind and clouds. Kale Williams, Axios, 16 May 2025 Right Now By Jenna Ryu Stand with your feet hip-width apart and grasp the kettlebell by the top of the handle with both hands, holding your arms straight out in front of you. Caroline Tien, SELF, 16 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for grasp
Recent Examples of Synonyms for grasp
Noun
  • According to the agencies, the GRU hackers also carried out reconnaissance of the network of at least one producer of industrial control system components for railway systems—suggesting a possible intention to attempt sabotage—but didn’t actually succeed in breaching the company.
    Andy Greenberg, Wired News, 24 May 2025
  • However, his potential control over the Vatican Bank raises important questions about FBAR filing duties.
    Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025
Noun
  • The long, ergonomic handle is designed for adult hands, ensuring a comfortable grip during feeding sessions.
    Toby Rose, Parents, 22 May 2025
  • That means proper accounting, clean P&Ls, and a firm grip on metrics like customer acquisition cost and lifetime value.
    Lien De Pau, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025
Noun
  • Brands need to develop a deeper understanding of the media consumption habits and cultural nuances of diverse audiences to connect authentically and build lasting relationships.
    Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 1 June 2025
  • But everyone needs appropriate stimulation and understanding throughout their lives, and highly able learners can sadly have their unique talents dimmed by the pressure to fit into environments that simply haven’t been properly designed for them.
    Toria Sheffield, People.com, 31 May 2025
Verb
  • For a long time, a very evolved, smart person that makes poor choices sometimes can still understand what that means.
    Daniel D'Addario, Variety, 30 May 2025
  • Both Wong and Barratt understand the assignments here.
    David Fear, Rolling Stone, 30 May 2025
Verb
  • After the Mass, while meeting with dignitaries and world faith leaders, the pope broke protocol to hug his brother.
    Angie Leventis Lourgos, Chicago Tribune, 21 May 2025
  • The extra weight is believed to help calm the nervous system, mimicking the feeling of being hugged and promoting a sense of security and relaxation.
    Nora Colomer may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 21 May 2025
Verb
  • Kelly holds a political science degree from Wichita State University.
    Matthew Kelly, Kansas City Star, 28 May 2025
  • Manufacturing has been on the decline in the United States, with only 8% of American workers holding jobs in that sector as of earlier this year compared to roughly 26% in 1970, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, And a lot has changed since 1970.
    Lisa Eadicicco, CNN Money, 28 May 2025
Verb
  • Forget iOS 19: Apple To Launch iPhone 17 With Radically Different Software, Report Says Software in the iPhone knows your location and is able to spot the satellites passing overhead to guide you where to point.
    David Phelan, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025
  • When shopping for pure silk, be sure look for bedding labels that note 100% mulberry silk, also known as natural silk.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 31 May 2025
Noun
  • Still, though, worthy of appreciation in the eyes of someone for whom the softness of an aging body can look a lot like love.
    Valerie Monroe, Allure, 23 May 2025
  • She’s been a front row guest at Balenciaga, Chloé and Rabanne during Paris Fashion Week, and her appreciation of fashion is growing.
    Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 23 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Grasp.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/grasp. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

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