clutching
word · lemma: clutch
Definition
Holding something tightly, often because you are afraid, nervous, or don't want to let go.
Usage & Nuances
Usually refers to a physical, intense grip with your hand, often in emotional contexts like fear, relief, or desperation. Common collocations: 'clutching her bag', 'clutching at straws' (idiom: trying anything to succeed). Use with objects held tightly.
Spanish: aferrando - sujetando fuertementePortuguese (BR): agarrando - segurando com forçaPortuguese (PT): agarrando - segurando com forçaChinese (Simplified): 紧握 - 抓住Chinese (Traditional): 緊握 - 抓住Hindi: जकड़े हुए - कसकर पकड़े हुएArabic: ممسكًا بقوة - قابضًا
Example Sentences
The child was clutching his mother's hand.
basic
She was clutching her bag tightly.
basic
He came into the room clutching a letter.
basic
She sat in the waiting room, clutching her phone and looking worried.
natural
He was clutching at straws, hoping for a miracle.
natural
After hearing the noise, the cat ran under the bed, clutching its toy.
natural