cling to something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cling to something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe holding onto an idea, belief, or object tightly, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "Despite the challenges, she continued to cling to her dreams of becoming an artist."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"They cling to something spiritual".

The Guardian - Sport

"What destroys comedy writers," Lorne Michaels told me, "is when they cling to something".

The New Yorker

And in excruciating situations, don't many people cling to something familiar and comforting?

The New York Times - Sports

** "What destroys comedy writers," Lorne Michaels told me, "is when they cling to something".

The New Yorker

And I think people find her funny because humour needs to cling to something.

The Guardian - Books

Yet it derives partly from Russia's need, in its weakened state, to cling to something unequivocally good.But only partly.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

"It's about clinging to something – be that a relationship, a career, or life itself.

The Guardian - Music

He was still awkward, but now, at least, he could stand and walk on two legs without clinging to something.

The New Yorker

But it's Lidy, "clinging to something beautiful" — the sound of psalms sung by a family in a doomed farmhouse — to whom readers will give their hearts.

The New York Times - Books

It was impolitic, but, with a crucial proviso added, true: we all are clinging to something, if no more than an app at our Beatle-loving fingertips.

The New Yorker

They're in a situation where the world is changing before them and they're clinging to something in the past that is not sustainable".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cling to something" when you want to convey a sense of holding on tightly, either physically or emotionally, especially in the face of difficulty or uncertainty.

Common error

Avoid using "cling to something" when a more nuanced verb like "appreciate", "value", or "remember" would better reflect the intended meaning, as the phrase can sometimes imply desperation or a lack of alternative options.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cling to something" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating an act of holding onto something, either literally or figuratively. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Social Media

2%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cling to something" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrasal verb. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It conveys a sense of holding on, either physically or emotionally, especially during challenging circumstances. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for various contexts, with a strong presence in news and media. Alternative phrases include "hold onto something" and "grasp at something". When using this phrase, be mindful of the potential implication of desperation and ensure it aligns with your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hold onto something

Focuses on the physical or metaphorical act of keeping something secure.

grasp at something

Implies a desperate or urgent attempt to secure or understand something.

latch onto something

Suggests seizing and holding something, often for support or advantage.

hold fast to something

Emphasizes the firmness and determination in maintaining possession or belief.

adhere to something

Implies sticking firmly to a belief, principle, or plan.

maintain something

Focuses on preserving a condition, belief, or position.

preserve something

Highlights the act of saving or protecting something from harm or change.

depend on something

Indicates reliance on something for support or success.

rely on something

Similar to depend on, but can also imply trust.

embrace something

Suggests accepting or adopting something enthusiastically.

FAQs

How can I use "cling to something" in a sentence?

You can use "cling to something" to describe holding onto an idea, belief, or object tightly, often in a metaphorical sense. For example: "Despite the challenges, she continued to "cling to something" spiritual".

What can I say instead of "cling to something"?

You can use alternatives like "hold onto something", "grasp at something", or "latch onto something" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "cling to something"?

It's appropriate when you want to express the act of tightly holding on or depending on something for support, comfort, or survival, especially during difficult times. It can also be used metaphorically, when the intent is to describe the act of holding on to beliefs, memories, or ideals.

What's the difference between "cling to something" and "stick to something"?

"Cling to something" implies a more emotional or desperate hold, while "stick to something" suggests adherence to a plan or principle. The first is more related to emotions, the second one to a path to follow.