Clinch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clinch

[klษชn(t)สƒ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

boxing

Settle (a matter) decisively.

Synonyms

confirm, seal, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clinch

Used to describe finalizing something, especially in a competitive or challenging situation. Can also refer to grabbing or holding something tightly.

  • The team managed to clinch the championship in the final minute of the game.
  • He reached out to clinch her hand for support.
secure

Usually describes making something safe or obtaining something through effort. Can also imply ensuring stability or certainty.

  • He worked hard to secure a good job after graduation.
  • Make sure to secure the windows before the storm hits.
seal

Commonly used when something is being officially closed or finalized, often in a formal or ceremonial context.

  • They sealed the deal with a handshake.
  • The envelope was sealed with wax.
confirm

Appropriate for situations where one needs to verify or validate information, agreements, intentions, or events.

  • She called to confirm the reservation at the restaurant.
  • The lab results confirmed the diagnosis.

Examples of usage

  • He clinched the victory with a powerful left hook.
  • The boxer clinched the championship title with a knockout in the final round.
Context #2 | Verb

negotiation

Reach an agreement or settle an argument by bargaining or discussing terms.

Synonyms

conclude, finalize, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clinch

This word is often used in a competitive or decisive situation, typically to describe securing a victory, deal, or arrangement after tough negotiation or effort.

  • After months of negotiation, they managed to clinch the deal.
  • The athlete clinched the championship with a stellar performance.
conclude

This term is usually utilized in formal or general contexts to indicate bringing something to an end, such as a meeting, agreement, or statement.

  • We can conclude the meeting once all points have been discussed.
  • They concluded the contract after thorough discussions.
finalize

Used primarily in formal or business settings to describe the action of completing the last details of a plan, document, or agreement.

  • We need to finalize the project plan by Friday.
  • They finalized the merger agreement late last night.
secure

This word is often employed to denote obtaining or achieving something through effort or certainty. It can be used in both formal and informal situations.

  • He secured a job at the prestigious firm.
  • They secured funding for their new startup.

Examples of usage

  • They were able to clinch a deal after a long negotiation process.
  • The two parties finally clinched a compromise on the issue.
Context #3 | Noun

construction

A bend or a sharp fold in a sheet of material.

Synonyms

crease, crease, fold.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clinch

Similarly to the previous usage, clinch in this context means to make certain or secure, particularly in competitive situations or business deals.

  • Her last-minute goal clinched the win for the team.
  • He was able to clinch the contract with the new client.
crease

Crease is typically used to describe a line or mark made by folding, pressing, or crushing something. It's often used in relation to fabric, such as clothing, or paper.

  • He noticed a crease in his trousers and ironed it out.
  • There was a deep crease in the letter where it had been folded.
fold

Fold refers to bending something, usually paper or fabric, so that one part covers another. It's common in everyday contexts, such as folding clothes or paper.

  • She carefully folded the laundry.
  • He folded the letter and put it into an envelope.

Examples of usage

  • The metal sheet had a clinch at one end, making it difficult to flatten.
  • The carpenter used a clinch to join two pieces of wood together.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • In boxing and other fighting sports, 'clinch' refers to a position where fighters hug each other to restrain movement and avoid being hit.
  • A clinch can often be a strategic move, allowing a fighter to regain composure or silence the opponentโ€™s attacks.
  • The term 'clinch' is also used in wrestling when grapplers hold each other close to control the match.

Relationships

  • In the context of a relationship, 'clinch' signifies a critical moment where a couple finalizes a commitment.
  • The term can also describe moments when arguments are settled, leading to stronger bonds among partners.
  • In romantic contexts, a clinch might refer to a close embrace that signifies affection or reconciliation.

Idioms and Expressions

  • The phrase 'to clinch a deal' refers to finalizing a business agreement, suggesting a firm conclusion.
  • In conversation, one might say 'it's a clincher', pointing to an undeniable point or reason that concludes a discussion.
  • The expression 'clutched in a clinch' carries connotations of close interactions, sometimes even in dramatic storytelling.

Cinematic References

  • In film, many climactic moments feature characters clinch in confronting situations, sealing their fates.
  • Action movies often use clinch scenarios to depict struggles between characters, heightening tension and engagement for the audience.
  • Romantic films frequently showcase clinching scenes as symbols of deep connection or pivotal decisions.

Origin of 'clinch'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'clyncan', which means to grasp or clutch tightly.
  • It has connections to various languages, with similar forms seen in German as 'klinken', hinting at physical holds.
  • Originally, it also referred to the act of making something more secure in a physical context.

The word 'clinch' originated from Middle English 'clinchen' and Old English 'clencan', which meant 'to fasten with a hook or clasp'. It has evolved over time to signify decisively settling a matter or reaching an agreement. The term has been widely used in various fields such as boxing, negotiation, and construction, reflecting its versatility and importance in different contexts.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,769, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.