cling

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'cling' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used as a verb meaning to hold onto something tightly or to stick to something. For example: She clung to her child tightly as they ran away from the fire.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

An island that now charges you thousands of euros to spend a couple of nights in one of the tiny white cave dwellings that cling to its cliffs, magically transformed into some of the most glamorous hotels in the world.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

More, neither may be able to get a majority even with the support of however many MPs the Lib Dems have managed to cling on to.

The Guardian - Opinion

Europa League-chasing Lazio appeared happy enough to cling onto a slender lead after Stefan Radu added some excitement to a dull first half with a rare goal.

The Guardian - Sport

The final arithmetic will ultimately be decided not just by how many seats each party gains, but by how many they can cling on to – especially when it comes to Labour in Scotland and the Conservatives in England.

The Guardian

Kendall, often described as a Blairite candidate, has previously warned that Labour should not to cling to the "fantasy" that Britain has swung to the left.

The Guardian

"Apart from eliminating a whole swathe of potential business contacts, they're almost an admission that you can't cope in the wider business context so need to cling to the pack.

The Guardian

But the real damage is likely to be done on the narrow twisting descents and sharp ascents around Oughtibridge and High Bradfield, the killer punch coming when what remains of the field hits Jenkin Road, a short climb within Sheffield which is so steep it has a handrail for pedestrians to cling to.

The Guardian - Sport

Mix well, cover with cling film and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

2) Don't cling to your possessions when deceased.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Even then he tried to cling on, saying he would stand for the leadership in an open contest.

The Guardian

That is for the representatives of the nation states in the United Nations organs (Human Rights Council, General Assembly, and Security Council)." Muggwoffin asked about Andrei Lankov's view that the regime is frightened of persecution, which is the reason they cling to power.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cling" in a metaphorical sense, ensure the object being clung to provides genuine support or stability. Avoid using it to describe dependence on something unreliable.

Common error

Avoid using "cling" with abstract concepts that cannot provide physical support. For example, instead of saying "He clung to his beliefs", consider "He adhered to his beliefs" or "He held steadfastly to his beliefs".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "cling" is as a verb, denoting the action of holding tightly or adhering closely. Ludwig's examples show its use in describing both physical and metaphorical attachment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "cling" is a versatile verb used to describe both physical and metaphorical attachment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news, formal writing, and scientific discourse. When using "cling", it's important to consider the nuances of attachment and ensure the object of clinging is appropriate for the intended meaning. Alternatives such as "hold on tightly" or "adhere to" may be more suitable depending on the specific context and desired emphasis. It is crucial to note the different ways of using it, considering its use in both physical and abstract scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hold on tightly

Emphasizes the physical act of grasping something firmly.

adhere to

Focuses on the act of sticking to something, either physically or metaphorically.

stick to

Similar to "adhere to", but can also imply loyalty or persistence.

cleave to

A more formal and archaic term for adhering strongly to something.

grasp firmly

Highlights the act of taking hold of something with strength.

remain attached

Focuses on the state of being connected or linked.

depend on

Indicates reliance or dependence on something or someone.

be reliant on

Similar to "depend on", emphasizing the state of reliance.

embrace tightly

Implies holding someone or something close with affection or determination.

maintain adherence

Highlights the act of keeping to something with precision.

FAQs

How can I use "cling" in a sentence?

You can use "cling" to describe physically holding onto something tightly, as in "The child "clung to his mother"". It can also be used metaphorically to describe adhering to something, such as "They "cling to their beliefs"".

What can I say instead of "cling"?

You can use alternatives like "hold on tightly", "adhere to", or "stick to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "cling to" or "cling with"?

"Cling to" is the correct and more common usage. "Cling with" is grammatically incorrect in most contexts.

What's the difference between "cling" and "adhere"?

"Cling" often implies a desperate or tenacious hold, while "adhere" suggests a more general sticking or following. For example, seaweed clings to a rock, and one adheres to a set of rules.