grappling

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "grappling" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about a situation that is difficult and complex, indicating that one is trying to deal with it. Example sentence: The company is currently grappling with substantial financial losses.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And for a leadership already grappling with separatist movements in the western regions Tibet and Xinjiang, any sort of successful independence movement would set an unthinkable precedent.

The Guardian

In this case it was Denis Healey, the chancellor from 1974 to 1979, who, in addition to grappling with the inflationary consequences of the quintupling of oil prices in 1973-74, also had to deal with the demands of powerful trade unions and unhelpful policy suggestions from the Liberals.

The Guardian

Like most brands grappling with this particular issue, Topshop could have been more adventurous and provocative.

The Guardian

UK tech entrepreneurs are calling for tax breaks in return for volunteering to teach code, along with creating a legal framework for bitcoin and more investment for teachers grappling with the new computing curriculum - all part of an ambitious tech manifesto launched on Wednesday.

The Guardian - Tech

Thinking Parsis despair over this avoidable controversy cleaving apart a community already grappling with survival, identity and rudderless youth.

The Guardian

The Lobleins are among thousands of couples and individuals grappling with difficult choices regarding their stored genetic material.

The Guardian

It would seem that Cameron's repeated high-profile speeches on immigration may have more to do with meeting the political challenge of Ukip than grappling with any alleged problem of benefit or health "tourism".

The Guardian

However, in countries grappling with hunger and poverty, where even the most rudimentary services are often lacking, disabled people frequently find themselves on the extreme margins.

The Guardian

Of course, even the best-laid plans can be undone by pesky opponents and for a while on Saturday Neil's team found grappling with Mick McCarthy's uncompromising Ipswich side as awkward as they had done in the first leg.

The Guardian - Sport

Justice Kennedy asked hard questions of both sides, suggesting that he is still grappling with the difficult issues in the case.

The Guardian - Opinion

On the day, he found himself grappling with a 1916 custard-coloured Hispano-Suiza, complete with double declutch, which he was required to bring to a dead stop - inch perfect - in front of the camera.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "grappling", ensure the subject is actively struggling or contending with a complex issue. The verb implies effort and ongoing engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "grappling" to describe a situation where someone is merely observing a problem without actively trying to solve it. "Grappling" implies active engagement and effort.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "grappling" is as a present participle, often used as part of a continuous verb tense (e.g., "is grappling") or as a gerund. Ludwig AI shows that "grappling" is often used to describe ongoing processes of dealing with difficult issues.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "grappling" is a versatile verb phrase indicating active engagement and struggle with a complex issue. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage, particularly in news and media contexts. While synonymous with phrases like "dealing with" or "addressing", "grappling" implies a more intense and challenging effort. When writing, remember that "grappling" emphasizes active engagement, not passive observation. Therefore, ensure the subject is actively involved in the struggle. Top authoritative sources like The Guardian and The Economist frequently employ this phrase to describe ongoing efforts to resolve complex problems, making it a valuable term in formal and neutral registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dealing with

Focuses on managing or handling a situation, often implying a direct and practical approach.

contending with

Suggests a struggle or competition against something, highlighting the adversarial aspect.

wrestling with

Implies a more intense and prolonged struggle, often with internal or abstract issues.

tackling

Emphasizes a proactive and decisive approach to confronting a problem.

addressing

Focuses on bringing attention to and attempting to resolve a specific issue.

confronting

Highlights a direct and often challenging encounter with a difficult situation.

managing

Suggests a focus on control and efficient handling of a situation.

handling

Implies a practical and often skillful approach to dealing with something.

facing

Indicates acknowledging and preparing to deal with a challenge or difficulty.

navigating

Suggests a careful and strategic approach to moving through a complex situation.

FAQs

How can I use "grappling" in a sentence?

You can use "grappling" to describe someone or something actively trying to understand or deal with a difficult problem. For example, "The government is "grappling" with the economic crisis".

What's the difference between "grappling" and "dealing with"?

"Grappling" implies a more intense and difficult struggle than "dealing with". While "dealing with" can refer to routine management, "grappling" suggests a complex and challenging situation.

What are some synonyms for "grappling"?

Synonyms for "grappling" include "contending with", "wrestling with", "tackling", and "addressing". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "grappling" in formal writing?

Yes, "grappling" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing significant challenges or complex problems. It is frequently used in news reports and academic papers.