How Do You Spell GRAB AT?

Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈab at] (IPA)

The phrase "grab at" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ɡræb æt/. The first sound is a voiced velar stop represented by "g" followed by the vowel sound "æ" represented by "a" in the spelling. The second word begins with a short "a" sound represented by "a" and ends with the unvoiced dental fricative represented by "t". Overall, this word signifies a quick and forceful action of trying to take hold of something. It is frequently used in conversations where one seeks to get a stronger grip on what they want.

GRAB AT Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "grab at" is a verb phrase that encompasses multiple meanings and connotations. It can refer to a physical action, as well as metaphorical or figurative situations.

    In its literal sense, "grab at" means to reach out quickly and eagerly in order to obtain or seize something. It implies a sudden and impulsive movement, often driven by a desire for possession or control. For instance, a child might "grab at" a toy they want, indicating a quick attempt to take hold of it.

    Metaphorically, "grab at" signifies making hasty and desperate attempts to achieve a particular outcome or gain an advantage. It can connote an aggressive or forceful approach towards a goal, illustrating a person's determination to obtain what they covet. This usage often implies a sense of urgency, suggesting a person's willingness to take any opportunity that presents itself, regardless of the consequences or ethical implications.

    Furthermore, "grab at" can also imply a tendency to make rash assumptions or interpretations. It can describe someone eagerly and unquestioningly accepting an explanation or accepting a proposition without critically examining its validity. In this context, "grab at" suggests a lack of discernment or intellectual rigor.

    Overall, "grab at" encompasses the notions of quick and eager attempts to obtain or seize something physically, as well as metaphorically applying to situations involving ambition, urgency, or unbridled enthusiasm.

Common Misspellings for GRAB AT

  • frab at
  • vrab at
  • brab at
  • hrab at
  • yrab at
  • trab at
  • geab at
  • gdab at
  • gfab at
  • gtab at
  • g5ab at
  • g4ab at
  • grzb at
  • grsb at
  • grwb at
  • grqb at
  • grav at
  • gran at
  • grah at
  • grag at

Etymology of GRAB AT

The word "grab" has its roots in Middle English, derived from the Old English word "græppian". It initially meant to grip or seize forcefully. The word "at" is a preposition indicating direction, aim, or intention. When the two words are used together as "grab at", it suggests an action of reaching out and attempting to seize something hastily or eagerly. The etymology of "grab at" can be traced back to Old English and remains relatively consistent in its meaning throughout history.

Idioms with the word GRAB AT

  • make a grab at sm or sth The idiom "make a grab at someone or something" refers to an action of reaching out quickly and energetically in an attempt to seize or take hold of someone or something. It often implies an act of desperation or aggression to acquire or attain the desired person or object.
  • grab at sm or sth The idiom "grab at something" means to make a sudden and desperate attempt to obtain or achieve something, often without considering the potential consequences or the appropriate approach. It implies an impulsive or hasty action to acquire a desired object or accomplish a goal.
  • make a grab at The idiom "make a grab at" means to attempt to seize or take hold of something quickly and often greedily, usually in a hasty or impulsive manner. It implies an action of reaching out and trying to obtain something eagerly, sometimes without considering the consequences or considering others.
  • grab at someone or something The idiom "grab at someone or something" means to make a sudden or desperate attempt to obtain or possess someone or something, often in a forceful or aggressive manner. It implies a sense of urgent or excessive desire to acquire or control.
  • grab at To try to obtain or achieve something eagerly or quickly, often in a hasty or unorganized manner.

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