Clutch at straws: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Clutch at straws” mean?

"Clutch at straws" means to make desperate or futile attempts to find a solution or hope in a difficult situation.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He's clutching at straws by trying to blame others for his mistakes.

Example

The company is clutching at straws by implementing last-minute changes to the project.

Example

She's clutching at straws by hoping for a miracle to save her failing business

Is “Clutch at straws” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Clutch at straws” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Clutch at straws” effectively in context?

You can use "Clutch at Straws" to describe someone who is making desperate or futile attempts to find a solution or hope in a difficult situation. It emphasizes the idea of grasping for something that is unlikely to be helpful or effective. For example, if a friend is trying to blame others for their mistakes instead of taking responsibility, you might say, 'He's clutching at straws by trying to shift the blame.'

• 1. Personal Relationships

  She's clutching at straws by hoping that her ex will change his mind and come back.

• 2. Academic

  The student is clutching at straws by asking for extra credit at the last minute to pass the course.

• 3. Financial

  The company is clutching at straws by relying on a risky investment to save their failing business.

Similar phrases to “Clutch at straws”:

Grasp at thin air

To make futile attempts to find a solution or hope

Example

He's grasping at thin air by trying to find excuses for his failures.

Reach for the stars

To set ambitious goals or aspirations

Example

She's reaching for the stars by aiming to become a successful entrepreneur.

Search for a needle in a haystack

To look for something that is extremely difficult or impossible to find

Example

They're searching for a needle in a haystack by trying to locate the lost document.

Cry over spilled milk

To dwell on past mistakes or misfortunes that cannot be changed

Example

He's crying over spilled milk by constantly regretting his past decisions.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Clutch at straws” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Clutch at Straws" is unknown.

Is “Clutch at straws” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Clutch at Straws" is a relatively common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where someone is desperately trying to find a solution or hope, even when the chances of success are slim.

What tone does “Clutch at straws” have?

"Clutch at Straws" conveys a tone of desperation and futility. It suggests that the person's actions are unlikely to lead to a positive outcome and may even be seen as irrational or delusional.

Can “Clutch at straws” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "clutch at straws" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of desperate attempts to find a solution or hope. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's clutching at straws by blaming others instead of taking responsibility.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'She's really clutching at straws!' to imply someone's desperate attempts.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• fish for compliments
• hope against hope
• grasp at straws
• wishful thinking
• desperate measures

Antonyms

• find a solution
• have a clear plan
• be confident
• face reality
• accept the inevitable