Cool MateGrab
UK /["/ɡræb/","/ɡræbz/","/ɡræbd/","/ˈɡræbɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɡræb/","/ɡræbz/","/ɡræbd/","/ˈɡræbɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to take or hold somebody/something with your hand suddenly or roughly
In simple words: to take something quickly or suddenly
Examples
- I need to grab a coffee before my meeting.
- Please grab the book from the shelf and bring it to me.
- He managed to grab the lead in the race within the first lap.
- She tried to grab my attention by waving her hand.
- After school, they plan to grab some food at the new restaurant.
- I saw him grab the last piece of pizza before anyone else could.
- Make sure to grab the opportunity when it arises.
- Can you grab a couple of bags from the car?
- He had to grab hold of the railing to prevent himself from falling.
- The artist wants to grab the viewer's interest right from the start.
Usage notes
Use 'grab' in casual conversations, particularly when describing a quick action. Avoid in formal writing; 'seize' or 'take' may be more appropriate.
Grammar pattern
grab + object
Memory hint
Sounds like 'grab a snack' — think of quickly grabbing a bite to eat.
Collocations
- suddenly
- quickly
- try to
- manage to
- at
- by
- from
- grab hold of something
- suddenly
- quickly
- try to
- manage to
- at
- by
- from
- grab hold of something
- suddenly
- quickly
- try to
- manage to
- at
- by
- from
- grab hold of something
Synonyms
- take
- seize
- snatch
- catch
- clutch
Antonyms
- release
- let go
- drop
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'grab' with 'grasp'; 'grasp' implies a more secure hold.
- Using 'grab' in a formal context where 'take' would be a better choice.
- Mixing up 'grab' with 'snatch'; 'snatch' often implies theft or a more aggressive action.