What does the phrasal verb “latch on” mean?

What are the definitions of “latch on”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Understand, often after a long time.

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

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “latch on”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb latch on is to understand something, often after a long time or with difficulty. It means that someone finally grasps or comprehends a concept or situation.

What are the different verb forms of “latch on”?

Root Verb	latch on
Third Person Singular Present	latches on
Present Participle	latching on
Simple Past	latched on
Past Participle	latched 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.

Example

He is latching on to the idea that he needs to change his approach.

Example

After several attempts, they finally latched on to the solution.

Example

Once she latched on to the truth, she confronted them.

What kind of phrasal verb is “latch on”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“latch on” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

It took her a while to latch on.

Example

He finally latched on after several explanations.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“latch on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

It took her a while to latch on.

Example

He finally latched on after several explanations.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “latch on”?

Latch on to someone

To become attached to or follow someone closely, often in an annoying or overly dependent manner.

Example

The little boy latched on to his mother's leg, refusing to let go.

Latch on to something

To become interested or focused on a particular subject or idea.

Example

She latched on to the idea of starting her own business and never looked back.

Good things to know

Does “latch on” have an informal or formal tone?

Latch on is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms such as 'understand,' 'comprehend,' or 'grasp' instead.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “latch on”?

Synonyms

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

Antonyms

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