What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prehensile
Example
The monkey used its prehensile tail to grab onto the branch. [prehensile: adjective]
Example
The artist had a prehensile touch, able to manipulate the brush with great precision. [prehensile: adjective]
Example
The handle of the mug was designed to be prehensile, fitting comfortably in the hand. [prehensile: adjective]
grasping
Example
The businessman was accused of being grasping and only caring about profits. [grasping: adjective]
Example
She was grasping onto the railing tightly as she climbed the stairs. [grasping: verb]
Example
He was grasping at straws, trying to find any evidence to support his theory. [grasping: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grasping is more commonly used than prehensile in everyday language. Grasping is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while prehensile is more specialized and typically used in scientific or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between prehensile and grasping?
While prehensile is typically associated with a formal or technical tone, grasping is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
