What does the phrasal verb “latch on to” mean?

What are the definitions of “latch on to”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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

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

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb latch on to is to understand something, often after a long time. It can be used when someone finally grasps a concept or idea that they have been struggling with or when they discover something that was previously hidden or unknown.

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

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

Example

She is latching on to the new information quickly.

Example

After some time, they latched on to the criminal's plan.

Example

Once he latched on to the concept, he was able to solve the problem.

What kind of phrasal verb is “latch on to”?

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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 to” 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

She finally latched on to the solution.

Example

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

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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 to” 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

She finally latched on to the solution.

Example

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

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

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 an idea

To become interested in or enthusiastic about a particular idea or concept.

Example

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

Good things to know

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

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

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “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