grasp
Meaning(s)
1. hold or grip tightly
Popularity
High
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
grasp the bar/concept/opportunity
Analysis
To grasp mean to literally hold tightly or 'to grip'. Figuratively it means to comprehend or understand something, you can grasp a concept meaning you understand it, or grasp an opportunity meaning you avail of it. This is a formal expression used more in professional contexts.
Social Examples (Basic)
- He was terrified of the rollercoaster, so he grasped the bar and held on tight.
- I never really grasped the basics of cooking so I decided to enrol in a class so I could learn.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- She quickly developed a good grasp of the concepts required to do the job.
- You have to grasp every opportunity with both hands, and just go for it!