reach for something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reach for something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the action of extending one's hand or arm to grasp or obtain an object. Example: "She had to reach for something on the top shelf to get the book she wanted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

I'd reach for something and it wasn't there".

The New York Times

His face seemed to reach for something, his features like a grasping hand.

The New Yorker

Reach for something with my right hand and knock it over with my left elbow.

The New Yorker

It has both the opportunity and the means to reach for something higher.

The New Yorker

Evidence of that is a surging middle class that is using its newfound wealth to reach for something more: luxury.

The New York Times

In a time of complete unrest, even the darkest and most grownup person will reach for something sweet and unchallenging.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

The man was reaching for something, too.

The New Yorker

Will he think I'm reaching for something else?

The New Yorker

It's about not always reaching for something else.

The Guardian - Film

"We're just reaching for something that's not there".

The New York Times - Sports

Ms. Krall is obviously reaching for something very high.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase metaphorically, consider adding adverbs or adjectives to specify the intensity or nature of the reaching: "reach for something higher", "reach for something extraordinary", "reach for something desperately."

Common error

Avoid using "reach for something" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms like "strive for something" or "aspire to something" to maintain reader engagement and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reach for something" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It describes an action of extending one's hand or arm to grasp an object or, metaphorically, to pursue a goal or aspiration. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reach for something" is a versatile verb phrase that Ludwig AI identifies as grammatically correct and widely used. It conveys both literal physical actions and metaphorical aspirations. Its prevalence in News & Media highlights its role in describing events and ambitions, while its presence in Wiki suggests accessibility for general understanding. When writing, consider varying your vocabulary to avoid overuse, and ensure context clarifies your intended meaning. Overall, "reach for something" is a powerful way to communicate intent and effort.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strive for something

Implies a sustained effort towards a goal, rather than a single reaching action.

reach out for something

Highlights the act of extending oneself, often emotionally or figuratively, to obtain something.

aspire to something

Focuses on ambition and a desire for something higher or better.

aim for something

Suggests a specific target or goal in mind.

pursue something

Implies actively following a course of action to obtain something.

grasp at something

Indicates a desperate or hurried attempt to seize something.

grab for something

Emphasizes a quick and forceful attempt to take hold of something.

stretch for something

Implies extending effort or resources to attain a goal.

seek something

Focuses on the act of searching or looking for something.

try to obtain something

More direct and less figurative, simply indicating an attempt to get something.

FAQs

How can I use "reach for something" in a sentence?

The phrase "reach for something" can be used both literally, like "She had to reach for something on the top shelf", or metaphorically, such as "He encouraged his students to "reach for something higher" than they thought possible".

What are some alternatives to "reach for something"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "strive for something", "aspire to something", or "aim for something".

Is it correct to say "reached for something"?

Yes, "reached for something" is the past tense form and is grammatically correct. For example, "He reached for something in his pocket".

What does it mean to "reach for something higher"?

To ""reach for something higher"" typically means to strive for a more ambitious goal, to improve oneself, or to pursue something beyond the ordinary. It suggests aspiration and a desire for self-improvement.