PhrasesHub

Grasp at straws

    Definitions

      • desperation
        Attempting any and all options, no matter how futile or unlikely, in a desperate attempt to find a solution or hope for a positive outcome

      • weak or unconvincing argument
        Making an argument or explanation that lacks solid evidence or reasoning, often in a last-ditch effort to justify one's actions or beliefs

      • last resort
        Turning to something as a final option or solution, even if it is not ideal or desirable

    Examples of Grasp at straws

    • The sales team was struggling to meet their targets, and as the deadline approached, they began grasping at straws, suggesting risky and impractical ideas.

      Grasping at straws refers to trying to find a solution to a problem when there are no reasonable options left. It is a metaphor that comes from trying to drink water from a bundle of dried grass (straws) when there is no other source of water nearby. In this example, the sales team was reaching for any possible solution, no matter how unrealistic or dangerous, in a desperate attempt to achieve their goals.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "grasp at straws" is often used to describe a desperate or futile attempt to find a solution or justify one's actions. It can also refer to a weak or unconvincing argument, as well as a last resort option.

    This idiom is typically used in situations where someone is facing a difficult or seemingly impossible situation and is willing to try anything, even if it is unlikely to succeed. It can also be used to criticize someone for using weak or unconvincing arguments, as if they are grasping at straws for support.

    Origin of "Grasp at straws"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the practice of drowning victims in medieval Europe. In some cases, a person would grasp at straw as they were drowning, hoping to save themselves but ultimately futile. This practice gave rise to the saying "to grasp at a straw", meaning to try anything to survive, even if it is unlikely to work.

    Over time, the saying evolved into its current form of "grasp at straws". It is now commonly used in a figurative sense to describe any desperate attempt to find a solution or justification. The idiom has also been used in literature, with Shakespeare using a similar phrase in his play "King Richard III".

    In conclusion, the idiom "grasp at straws" has a long history and has evolved to become a common expression in the English language. It conveys a sense of desperation and futility, and is often used to criticize weak arguments or last resort options.