C1noun1K

Grip

UK /["/ɡrɪp/"]/US /["/ɡrɪp/"]/

Definition

an act of holding somebody/something tightly; a particular way of doing this

In simple words: to hold something tightly

Examples

  • The rock climber adjusted his grip before starting the ascent.
  • She had a firm grip on the steering wheel during the storm.
  • Lack of grip on the icy roads caused several accidents.
  • The new shoes provide better grip on slippery surfaces.
  • The child's grip on the toy loosened as he grew tired.
  • His firm grip on reality helped him stay calm under pressure.
  • The politician has a tight grip over the party's decisions.
  • The disease seems to have a strong grip on the population.

Usage notes

Used mainly in neutral contexts. Avoid in highly formal communication. Often describes holding physical objects, but can also relate to emotional control (e.g., 'grip on emotions').

Grammar pattern

grip + object

Memory hint

Think of a strong 'grip' when you hug someone tightly.

Collocations

  • firm
  • good
  • secure
  • have
  • get
  • take
  • tighten
  • loosen
  • relax
  • in a/​somebody’s grip
  • grip on
  • break somebody’s grip
  • firm
  • iron
  • powerful
  • have
  • get
  • take
  • in something’s grip
  • grip on
  • come to grips with something
  • get to grips with something

Synonyms

  • grasp
  • grasp

Antonyms

  • release
  • let go
  • slip

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'grip' as a noun (the hold) vs. verb (to hold tightly)
  • Using 'grip' with non-physical objects incorrectly (e.g., 'grip a thought' is awkward)
  • Omitting prepositions where needed, such as 'grip on' instead of just 'grip'