Clench: meaning, definitions and examples

Clench is typically used when describing a situation where someone is holding something tightly, usually with their hands or teeth, often due to strong emotions like anger, determination, or tension.

• She clenched her fists in anger.
• He clenched his teeth and refused to speak.

Grip refers to holding something firmly with your hands or other part of your body, and it can describe both physical actions and figurative situations where control is involved.

• He gripped the steering wheel tightly as he drove through the storm.
• She managed to get a grip on the situation.

Clutch is often used when someone is holding something tightly, usually out of fear, anxiety, or the need to keep it safe.

• She clutched her purse tightly as she walked through the dark alley.
• He clutched the edge of the table to steady himself.

Squeeze is used to describe pressing something from opposite sides, often to extract something, flatten it, or show affection. It can also imply applying more pressure than necessary.

• She squeezed the tube of toothpaste to get the last drop out.
• He gave her hand a gentle squeeze.

Usually involves tightly closing part of the body like a hand or teeth, often due to stress, anger, or determination.

• She clenched her fists in anger.
• He clenched his teeth and kept quiet.