in the clutches of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the clutches of" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to be under the control or power of someone or something. Example: The country was in the clutches of a corrupt dictator for decades before finally achieving freedom through a revolution.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The 1856 loser, John Fremont, is shown in the clutches of the suffragettes.

The New York Times

The matchless Michael Pennington's Antigonus meets his end too soon in the clutches of a bear.

The Guardian

He suggested the governor was in the clutches of the National Rifle Association.

The New York Times

When her father dies, Shiraz is left Cinderella-like in the clutches of an inconstant stepmother.

The New York Times - Books

It certainly isn't now when we're in the clutches of adulthood.

The New York Times

Its cover depicted a topless woman in the clutches of a one-eyed, pointy-headed octopus from space.

The New York Times - Books

You can go to the farthest corner of the globe, and you're still in the clutches of your own history.

The New York Times - Magazine

Assange's fear of ending up in the clutches of the US is plainly rational and well-grounded.

The Guardian - Opinion

Harold G. Hoffman, the governor in the mid-1930's, was an embezzler in the clutches of a blackmailer.

The New York Times

Among them is Jennifer Boeth Whipple, 53, a journalist who arrived in the clutches of alcoholism in 1998.

The New York Times

Some suggest that perhaps Mr. Shah paid off an extortion demand, then found himself in the clutches of a gang.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the clutches of" to vividly describe situations where a person or entity is powerfully controlled by something, often with negative connotations.

Common error

Avoid using "in the clutches of" when a more neutral phrase like "under the control of" would be more appropriate. The phrase carries a connotation of being trapped or victimized, which might not always be intended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the clutches of" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb phrase to indicate a state of being controlled or dominated by something, often with negative implications. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a common expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in the clutches of" is a common and grammatically correct English expression used to describe a state of being powerfully controlled, often with negative connotations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase vividly conveys the idea of being trapped or dominated, as shown in the provided examples. While versatile, it's best used when emphasizing a lack of freedom and potential harm. Alternative phrases like "under the control of" or "in the grip of" may be more appropriate in neutral or formal contexts. It's important to use this phrase judiciously to accurately reflect the intended tone and meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under the control of

Replaces the metaphor of "clutches" with a more direct expression of control.

in the grip of

Uses "grip" as a synonym for "clutches", indicating a firm hold.

controlled by

A more straightforward way of saying someone or something is in charge.

subject to the power of

Replaces the figurative language with a formal expression of being controlled.

at the mercy of

Emphasizes vulnerability and lack of control.

held captive by

Emphasizes the state of being imprisoned or restrained.

under the influence of

Focuses on the effect of an external force or entity.

ensnared by

Uses the imagery of a trap or snare, implying deception or cunning.

subjugated by

Indicates a state of being forcibly brought under control.

dominated by

Highlights the aspect of being overpowered or ruled.

FAQs

How can I use "in the clutches of" in a sentence?

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone or something is under the powerful control of another. For example, "The city was "in the clutches of" a severe economic depression."

What are some alternatives to "in the clutches of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "under the control of", "in the grip of", or "subject to the power of", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "in the clutches of" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "in the clutches of" might be more suitable for descriptive or narrative writing due to its somewhat figurative and dramatic tone. More formal contexts may benefit from phrases like "under the control of".

What is the nuance of using "in the clutches of" compared to "controlled by"?

"In the clutches of" implies a more forceful, often negative control, suggesting the subject is trapped or victimized. "Controlled by" is more neutral and simply indicates influence or authority.