to grasp

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to grasp" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to understanding or comprehending a concept, idea, or situation. Example: "It took me a while to grasp the complexities of the theory, but I finally understand it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To grasp what dream?

The New York Times

– or the hardest to grasp.

Independent

This isn't hard to grasp.

Independent

Their reasoning takes a minute to grasp.

The New York Times

He did appear to grasp the issues".

Independent

To grasp that dramatically requires imagination".

The New York Times

They're easy to grasp and frame.

The New York Times

The remedies are not hard to grasp.

The Economist

"We have to grasp the problem.

Independent

We just have to grasp those opportunities".

The New York Times

Our imaginations are primed to grasp it.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to grasp" when you want to emphasize the act of understanding something that may be difficult or complex. It conveys a sense of effort and eventual comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using "to grasp" when a simpler verb like "to understand" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or pretentious. If the concept is straightforward, opt for clearer language.

Linguistic Context

The infinitive phrase "to grasp" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often serving as an infinitive of purpose or complement. It commonly appears after auxiliary verbs or as part of a larger verb construction, signifying the action of understanding or physically holding something. Ludwig confirms its validity through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to grasp" is a versatile infinitive phrase primarily used to denote understanding or physically seizing something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and high frequency, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral to formal in register, it's important to consider context to avoid overuse in simpler situations. Alternative phrases like "to comprehend" or "to understand" can be employed depending on the specific nuance intended. Using "to grasp" effectively involves recognizing its emphasis on effort and comprehension, making it a valuable tool for precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to comprehend

Emphasizes intellectual understanding and assimilation of knowledge, rather than a physical hold.

to understand

A more general term for gaining knowledge or insight into something.

to apprehend

Implies a more formal or legalistic understanding.

to seize

Focuses on taking hold of an opportunity or advantage, rather than understanding.

to take hold of

Can refer to either physical or metaphorical grasping, similar to the original phrase.

to latch onto

Implies grasping something quickly and firmly, often an idea or concept.

to fathom

Suggests a deeper level of understanding, often used when something is complex.

to get a handle on

An idiomatic expression suggesting gaining control or understanding of a situation.

to take in

Suggests absorbing information or understanding something gradually.

to assimilate

Indicates integrating new information into existing knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "to grasp" in a sentence?

The phrase "to grasp" typically precedes a noun or noun phrase representing the concept or object being understood or held. For example, "It's difficult "to grasp the concept" of infinity" or "He reached out "to grasp the rope"".

What's the difference between "to grasp" and "to understand"?

"To grasp" often implies a more active effort to comprehend something, especially if it's complex or difficult. "To understand" is a more general term for having knowledge or insight. You might say "I understand the basic idea", but "I'm struggling "to grasp the nuances"" suggests a deeper, more challenging level of comprehension.

What are some alternatives to "to grasp"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to comprehend", "to understand", "to apprehend", or "to seize". The best choice depends on whether you are referring to understanding, taking hold of something physically, or seizing an opportunity.

Is it correct to use "grasp" as a noun?

Yes, "grasp" can be used as a noun, meaning a grip, understanding, or something within reach. For example, "He had a firm grasp on the rope", or "The solution is within my grasp".