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Dear Max: Grasp vs Grab

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Dear Max: Grasp vs Grab

with MaxBex

5. Advanced

Time for another viewer question. Max will get to the bottom of this.

Dear Max, I've heard two words used in a very similar way, and they sound very similar too: 'Grasp' and 'Grab'. Is there a difference? I feel like both mean to hold onto something. Thanks, Giulia from Milan

Grab

to take hold of something or someone suddenly and roughly

Grasp

to quickly take something in your hand(s) and hold it firmly

Grab

to take hold of something or someone suddenly and roughly

Grasp

to quickly take something in your hand(s) and hold it firmly

He grabbed hold of his child's arm to stop her from running into the road.

The advert really grabs your attention

He felt light headed, started to fall and grasped the handrail.

She grasped onto the rope and held on for dear life as the huge wave hit the ship.

The sailor grasped the rope.

The mugger grabbed the bag.

The sailor grasped the rope.

The mugger grabbed the bag.

Pick the correct answer

He quickly ___ the gun and then pointed it at the intruder.

Pick the correct answer

He ___ the door handle and held it with all his strength to stop the intruder coming in.

Secondary definitions!

Grab

To take the opportunity to get, use, or enjoy something quickly.

"I'm just going grab some lunch. I'll be back in 20 minutes"

I would grab hold of this opportunity if I were you.

Grasp

To understand something, especially something difficult.

The concept was hard to grasp.

She has a thorough grasp of her work.

Pick the correct answer

Tom has a good ___of grammar, but is weak in spelling.

Pick the correct answer

Awww, go to the fridge and ___ me a beer, would you?

Grab focuses more on the speed of the action itself.

Grasp suggests more about the action AFTER the grabbing. (And there is a emphasis on it being in your hand!)

If in doubt.... 'Grasp' is a lot more poetic.

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Full Video Duration: 11 minutes
Aired: almost 3 years ago

Dear Max, I've heard two words used in a very similar way, and they sound very similar too: 'Grasp' and 'Grab'. Is there a difference? I feel like both mean to hold onto something. Thanks, Giulia from Milan

Grab

Grasp

Grab

Grasp

He grabbed hold of his child's arm to stop her from running into the road.

The advert really grabs your attention

He felt light headed, started to fall and grasped the handrail.

She grasped onto the rope and held on for dear life as the huge wave hit the ship.

The sailor grasped the rope.

The mugger grabbed the bag.

The sailor grasped the rope.

The mugger grabbed the bag.

Secondary definitions!

Grab

"I'm just going grab some lunch. I'll be back in 20 minutes"

I would grab hold of this opportunity if I were you.

Grasp

The concept was hard to grasp.

She has a thorough grasp of her work.

Grab focuses more on the speed of the action itself.

Grasp suggests more about the action AFTER the grabbing. (And there is a emphasis on it being in your hand!)

If in doubt.... 'Grasp' is a lot more poetic.

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