to take hold of something or someone suddenly and roughly, to get something quickly or opportunistically

grab the bull by the horns, grab some Z's, grab the headlines

grab a bite (to eat), grab bag, grab hold of

Formal and Informal Expressions of grab

In different contexts, you can replace 'grab' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'seize, grasp' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'snatch, clutch' is a commonplace synonym.

grab: Explore its Definition & Usage

grab Definition

1to take hold of something or someone suddenly and roughly
2to get something quickly or opportunistically

Using grab: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "grab" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He grabbed the book from the shelf.
Example
She grabbed my arm and pulled me back.
Example
I need to grab some groceries on my way home.
Example
He grabbed the opportunity to speak with the CEO.

grab Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for grab

Antonyms for grab

release
let go

Idioms Using grab

grab the bull by the horns
to confront a difficult situation directly and with courage
Example
She decided to grab the bull by the horns and ask for a raise.
grab some Z's
to take a nap or get some sleep
Example
I'm going to grab some Z's before the party tonight.
grab the headlines
to attract public attention or media coverage
Example
The celebrity's scandalous behavior grabbed the headlines for weeks.

Phrases with grab

grab a bite (to eat)
to quickly get something to eat, often when one is in a hurry or doesn't have much time
Example
Let's grab a quick bite before the meeting starts.
grab bag
a bag or container filled with a variety of small items, often given away as party favors or prizes
Example
The children were thrilled with the grab bags they received at the birthday party.
grab hold of
to take hold of something firmly and not let go
Example
He grabbed hold of the railing to steady himself.

Origins of grab

from Middle English 'graben', meaning 'to grab or grasp'

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Summary: grab in Brief

The verb 'grab' [ɡræb] means to take hold of something or someone suddenly and roughly, or to get something quickly or opportunistically. It can refer to physical actions like 'He grabbed the book from the shelf,' or abstract ones like 'He grabbed the opportunity to speak with the CEO.' Phrases like 'grab a bite (to eat)' and idioms like 'grab the bull by the horns' add nuance to the term.