Webuser16269. Add a comment. 11. It means “ grasping at straws ”, which is the more common variation on the idiom. From the linked source: to depend on something that is useless. to make a futile attempt at something. trying to find some way to succeed when nothing you choose is likely to work. WebAug 27, 2024 · The earliest direct use of "grasping at straws" that I could find was from around this period, in 1811, and placed the word "grasping" in italics, suggesting …
Grasp at straws - Idioms by The Free Dictionary
WebMay 22, 2000 · The proverb has been traced back to 'Dialogue of Comfort Against Tribulation' by Thomas More (1478-1535). First cited in the United States in 'Colonial Currency' . The proverb is found in varying forms" a drowning man will clutch at a straw; A drowning man grabs at a straw; A drowning man snatches at straws, etc. The proverb … WebApr 22, 2001 · What I'm wondering is how did this phrase originate? Any help? I have a few ideas, but I'm really just grasping at straws. Oxford English Dictionary, quotation from "Clarissa" (Richardson, 1748): "A drowning man will catch at a straw, the Proverb well says." Grasping at straws ESC 04/23/01 Grasping at straws Barney 04/23/01 phiponi
Grasp at straws Definition & Meaning Dictionary.com
WebMeaning of grasping at straws in English grasping at straws idiom trying to find some way to succeed when nothing you choose is likely to work: We searched all the backup tapes, trying to find the missing files, but we knew we were grasping at straws. trying to find a reason to feel hopeful in a bad situation: WebApr 22, 2001 · Grasping at straws - phrase meaning and origin Browse phrases beginning with: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T UV W XYZ Full List Grasping at straws Posted by Christine on April 22, 2001 I know this term to mean a desperate attempt or just trying anything without really being sure if it will work. Webdoes anyone know where the phrase 'grasping at straws' originated? (I THINK THAT THE PHRASE LISTED IN THIS SITE IS 'CLUTCHING AT STRAWS', BUT THERE IS NO … phipol power co