Grip Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grip

[ɡrɪp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

hold tightly

The act of grasping and holding firmly; control or power in a situation.

Synonyms

clasp, clench, grasp, hold.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
grip	Used when holding something firmly, often to prevent it from moving or escaping. Can also describe a powerful or controlling influence. He had a firm grip on the steering wheel. The movie's plot had a strong grip on the audience.
hold	A general term for keeping something in your hands or arms, also used to describe maintaining a position, opinion, or state of being. Can you hold my bag for a moment? They decided to hold the meeting tomorrow.
grasp	Employed when referring to holding something with the whole hand, often to understand a concept or to mentally seize something. He grasped the rope to keep his balance. She finally grasped the concept after the third explanation.
clasp	Refers to holding something tightly with one's hands, often used in more delicate or emotional contexts. She clasped the necklace tightly in her hands. He clasped her hands in his as he made his promise.
clench	Describes holding something very tightly, often due to stress, anger, or determination. Has a more negative or intense connotation. He clenched his fists in anger. She clenched her teeth as the pain intensified.

Examples of usage

She tightened her grip on the handle.
The company has a strong grip on the market.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

control

The ability to maintain a firm and steady hold on something; control over a situation.

Synonyms

authority, command, control, power.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
grip	Used to describe a strong physical hold or a strong emotional or mental influence. He had a firm grip on the rope. The story has a gripping narrative that kept me engaged.
control	Indicates having the power to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events. Can be used in a wide range of contexts including technology, emotions, and management. He needs to control his temper. The remote control is not working properly.
power	Describes the ability or capacity to do something or act in a particular way. It can also refer to influence over others and often has strong associations with social, political, or personal influence. She has the power to make important decisions. The president has considerable power.
command	Used when someone is in charge of people or an operation, often in military or formal contexts. Can also refer to the act of giving orders. She took command of the situation immediately. The general gave a command to advance.
authority	Refers to the right or power to give orders, make decisions, or enforce obedience. Often related to positions of power in organizations or society. The teacher has authority over the students in the classroom. He questioned the authority of the new manager.

Examples of usage

The president has a tight grip on the country.
The teacher has a good grip on the class.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

hold firmly

To grasp or hold tightly; to exert a strong or compelling influence on something.

Synonyms

clutch, grapple, grasp, seize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
grip	Used when holding something firmly, especially with hands, or to describe a strong emotional effect. He has a strong grip on the rope The tragic news gripped her heart
grasp	Can be used for both physical holding and understanding concepts. He grasped the handle to open the door She quickly grasped the main idea of the lecture
seize	Often used when taking something suddenly or by force, and can have a negative connotation. The police seized the stolen goods He seized the opportunity to speak with the CEO
clutch	Often used when holding tightly because of fear, anxiety, or an urgent need. It can also refer to a mechanism in vehicles. She clutched her purse as she walked through the dark alley He quickly clutched the brake
grapple	Typically used to describe a physical struggle or to deal with a challenging problem. The two wrestlers grappled in the ring She is grappling with her new responsibilities at work

Examples of usage

He gripped the rope tightly.
Fear gripped her heart.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

Grip strength is often used to measure an individual's overall physical health and can indicate muscle strength and endurance.
Studies show that a person's grip can decrease with age, which might affect their ability to perform everyday tasks.

Sports

In rock climbing, having a strong grip is crucial as climbers rely on their hands to hold onto various surfaces.
Grip technology in sports equipment, like tennis rackets or golf clubs, has evolved to enhance performance and prevent slippage.

Psychology

Individuals with a 'strong grip' are often seen as more assertive and confident, reflecting psychological traits linked to power and control.
The act of gripping can also be linked to emotional responses, such as 'gripping fear' or 'gripping excitement,' indicating deep feelings.

Pop Culture

In movies, a character's 'grip' can designate their emotional control, such as the famous phrase 'grip it and rip it,' often used in sports contexts.
The phrase 'a death grip' in pop culture often refers to a scenario where someone is holding onto something so tightly that they cannot let go, signifying extreme anxiety or tension.

Origin of 'grip'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from Old English 'gripian,' which means to seize or grasp.
Related terms in different languages include 'grip' in Dutch and 'grip' in French, all originating from similar Proto-Germanic roots.

The word 'grip' originated from Old English 'gripan', meaning 'to seize or grasp'. Over time, its meaning evolved to include the concept of control and power. The term has been used in various contexts to signify holding, control, and influence.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,434 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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