Gripping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gripping
[ˈɡrɪpɪŋ ]
Definitions
movie review
Exciting or interesting in a way that keeps your attention.
Synonyms
captivating, compelling, exciting.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gripping |
Used for something that really captures your attention and is hard to stop thinking about, often in a sense of suspense or drama.
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| exciting |
Generally used for something that causes great enthusiasm and eagerness, often linked to events, activities, or experiences.
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| captivating |
Often used for something that is charming, enchanting, or holds your interest because it is beautiful or fascinating.
|
| compelling |
Used for something that is extremely interesting or persuasive, making you feel like you have to keep watching, reading, or listening.
|
Examples of usage
- The movie had a gripping storyline that kept me on the edge of my seat.
- The gripping performance by the lead actor left the audience in awe.
action
To hold tightly or firmly.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gripping |
Repeated in error, see above. |
| hold |
Use 'hold' in a general sense to describe maintaining possession or control of something, without necessarily implying force or urgency.
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| grasp |
Use 'grasp' when someone is holding something firmly, often with an understanding of its importance or to avoid losing it.
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| clutch |
Use 'clutch' to describe holding something tightly, usually because of fear, anxiety, or urgency.
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Examples of usage
- She was gripping the steering wheel tightly as she drove through the storm.
- He gripped the handle of the suitcase firmly to lift it off the ground.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Many bestselling novels are described as gripping because they keep readers turning pages late into the night.
- Authors often use cliffhangers to make their stories more gripping, keeping readers eager to find out what happens next.
Film and Theatre
- Gripping films often utilize suspenseful plots, engaging performances, and dramatic music to captivate audiences.
- The term is frequently used in movie reviews to highlight films that are hard to look away from due to their intense narratives.
Psychology
- The brain releases dopamine when we encounter gripping content, making us feel pleasure and excitement.
- Engaging stories can trigger emotional responses, making our interest in them deeper and more lasting.
Media and Technology
- Gripping content is essential for keeping viewers on streaming platforms, often leading to binge-watching behaviors.
- Social media often showcases gripping posts or videos to maximize engagement and shares among users.
Origin of 'gripping'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'grippa', which means to seize or grasp.
- In the late 19th century, 'gripping' began to be used to describe things that hold our attention tightly, like stories or performances.
The word 'gripping' originated from the Old English word 'gryppan', meaning 'to seize or grasp'. Over time, its meaning evolved to include the concept of holding tightly or firmly, as well as being exciting or captivating. The adjective form of 'gripping' gained popularity in the 20th century, particularly in the context of literature and film reviews.
See also: gripper.