What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
apprehend
Example
I couldn't apprehend the meaning of the poem, it was too abstract. [apprehend: verb]
Example
She apprehended the danger and quickly moved out of the way. [apprehended: past tense]
grasp
Example
He couldn't grasp the complexity of the math problem, it was too difficult. [grasp: verb]
Example
She had a firm grasp on the handlebars as she rode her bike. [grasp: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grasp is more commonly used than apprehend in everyday language. Grasp is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while apprehend is less common and is typically used in more formal or specific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between apprehend and grasp?
While grasp is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, apprehend is more formal and is commonly used in legal or law enforcement contexts.
