Phrasal verbs "latch on" vs "latch on to"

Differences between latch on and latch on to

Latch on and latch on to have similar meanings, but latch on to is more specific and implies a stronger attachment or connection to something or someone. Latch on can be used more generally to mean to grab onto or hold onto something.

Meanings and Definitions: latch on vs latch on to

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Latch on

• 1. Understand, often after a long time.

  They were lying, but it took her ages to LATCH ON.

Latch on to

• 1. Understand something, often after a long time.

  The police didn't LATCH ON TO what the crooks were doing for years.

Usage Examples: latch on, latch on to in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

latch on

Example

It took him a while to latch on to the new software.

Example

She eventually latches on to the fact that they were lying.

latch on to

Example

It took her a while to latch on to the new software.

Example

He eventually latches on to the hidden meaning in the poem.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Latch on

grab onto

To take hold of something firmly or tightly.

Example

She grabbed onto the railing to avoid falling down the stairs.

hold onto

To keep something in one's possession or grasp.

Example

He held onto his childhood teddy bear for sentimental reasons.

cling to

To hold onto something tightly or persistently, often out of fear or insecurity.

Example

The child clung to her mother's hand as they walked through the crowded street.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Latch on to

attach oneself to

To become emotionally or intellectually connected to someone or something.

Example

She attached herself to the new philosophy and became a devoted follower.

embrace an idea

To accept or adopt a new idea or concept.

Example

After reading the book, he embraced the idea of minimalism and started decluttering his home.

seize an opportunity

To take advantage of a favorable situation or chance.

Example

He seized the opportunity to study abroad and broaden his horizons.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “latch”

• latch onto
• latch on to

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

• fawn on
• fasten on
• pick on
• run on
• be on

Phrasal Verbs with “on to”

• go on to
• hold on to
• pass on to
• get on to
• cling on to

Differences in latch on vs latch on to: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: latch on or latch on to?

Both phrases are commonly used in everyday conversation, but latch on to is slightly more common. This is because it's a more versatile phrase that can be used in various contexts, such as relationships, ideas, or opportunities.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of latch on and latch on to

Both latch on and latch on to are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of latch on and latch on to

The tone of latch on and latch on to can differ based on context. Latch on often carries a physical or tangible tone when related to grabbing or holding onto something, while latch on to typically has a more emotional or intellectual tone, especially when referring to attaching oneself to an idea or person.

latch on & latch on to: Synonyms and Antonyms

Latch on

Synonyms

• understand
• grasp
• comprehend
• realize
• catch on
• get the hang of

Antonyms

• misunderstand
• overlook
• ignore
• miss
• fail to grasp

Latch on to

Synonyms

• understand
• grasp
• comprehend
• realize
• apprehend
• catch on
• get the hang of
• figure out

Antonyms

• misunderstand
• overlook
• miss
• ignore
• misinterpret
• misconstrue
• fail to grasp