clasp around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clasp around" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of holding or gripping something tightly, often in a circular or enclosing manner. Example: "She clasped around the delicate necklace, ensuring it wouldn't slip from her fingers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Your fingers clasp around your heart.

The New York Times

The inspector has, crucially, a sinister distinguishing feature: a metal clasp around his leg where he was injured in the Great War.

The Guardian - Film

It's a headset with three separate arms than clasp around your head.

TechCrunch

While Scottish company Touch Bionics builds hands which use software to control individual finger movement, so that the hand can clasp around objects.

BBC

Abigail knew they were meant for each other as soon as she felt Dan's hand clasp around her throat one fateful evening in the back of her car.

Vice

One guy was covered in blood, another had a metal clasp around his skull and a gang of 12th century French counts with painted-white faces skateboarded between dancers.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Ivory Clasp keeps around five or six styles on rotation at any time, in order to meet the style needs of customers, while also making sure customers don't get the same brand every month.  .

TechCrunch

He stared straight ahead, his hands clasped around his belt buckle.

The New Yorker

The weight of a crouched bird thus keeps the toes clasped around the perch.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On his last night with Liz, Kyle slept with his arms clasped around her neck.

The Guardian

As Mrs. Horman talks, her hands are clasped around a balled-up pink napkin.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "clasp around", ensure the object being clasped is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, "clasp your hands around the warm mug" provides a clear image.

Common error

Avoid using "clasp around" in overly abstract contexts where a more general verb like "influence" or "affect" would be more appropriate. "The idea clasped around her mind" is less effective than "The idea influenced her mind".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clasp around" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of gripping or encircling an object. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its usage in various contexts, from physical holds to more metaphorical encirclements.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clasp around" is a grammatically correct and usable verb phrase describing the action of tightly gripping or encircling something. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples from varied contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While not extremely common, the phrase is versatile and can add vividness to descriptions. To enhance clarity, it's advisable to specify the object being clasped. Alternatives like "grip firmly" or "hold tightly" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hold tightly

Emphasizes the act of keeping something secured.

wrap securely

Suggests a protective or fastening action.

grip firmly

Focuses on the strength and stability of the hold.

fasten closely

Indicates a secure and intimate connection.

circle tightly

Emphasizes the circular motion and secure fit.

encircle completely

Highlights the encompassing nature of the action.

seize firmly

Conveys a sense of urgency or force in the grip.

embrace tightly

Implies a more affectionate or supportive hold.

enfold completely

Focuses on the act of completely covering or surrounding.

cling to

Highlights the act of holding on for support or safety.

FAQs

What does "clasp around" mean?

The phrase "clasp around" means to grip or hold something tightly in a circular or enclosing manner.

How can I use "clasp around" in a sentence?

You can use "clasp around" to describe physically holding something, such as "The child's fingers "clasp around" the toy."

What are some alternatives to "clasp around"?

Alternatives include "grip firmly", "hold tightly", or "wrap securely", depending on the context.

Is "clasp around" formal or informal?

"Clasp around" is generally considered a neutral term suitable for both formal and informal writing, though it might be more common in descriptive or narrative contexts. Choose more formal vocabulary for business and academic environments.