Make a grab Meaning in English
expression
ˈmeɪk/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈɡɹæb
MAYK-uh-GRAB
mˈeɪk/ /æɪ/ /ɡɹˈæb
MAYK-a-GRAB
Definition
To quickly try to take, catch, or seize something, often suddenly or without asking. Can be used literally for objects or figuratively for opportunities.
Usage & Nuances
Slightly informal; often about sudden or impulsive action. Common with 'make a grab for' (something). Can describe attempts with hands or metaphorical actions (e.g., 'make a grab for power'). Not as strong as 'snatch' or 'seize'.
Spanish: intentar agarrar - tratar de cogerPortuguese (BR): tentar pegar - tentar agarrarPortuguese (PT): tentar agarrar - tentar apanharChinese (Simplified): 试图抓住Chinese (Traditional): 試圖抓住Hindi: पकड़ने की कोशिश करनाArabic: محاولة الإمساكBengali: ধরার চেষ্টা করাRussian: попытаться схватитьJapanese: つかもうとするVietnamese: cố chụp lấy - cố bắt lấyKorean: 잡으려고 하다Turkish: kapmaya çalışmakUrdu: پکڑنے کی کوشش کرناIndonesian: berusaha meraih - mencoba mengambil
Example Sentences
He tried to make a grab for the last cookie.
basic
Don't make a grab for your phone during class.
basic
The child made a grab for the toy.
basic
He made a grab for the door as the train started moving.
natural
She made a grab for the opportunity to travel abroad.
natural
Several companies made a grab for market share after the new law passed.
natural