grip

To hold something firmly, especially with your hand.

• Grip the rope tightly.
• She gripped my hand as we crossed the road.
• He was gripping the wheel with both hands.

Similar words: hold tightly, grasp, clutch

Opposites: release

Common phrases: grip something tightly, grip the handle, grip someone's arm, grip the rail

To understand a problem and take firm action to deal with it.

• We must grip this problem now.
• The new manager gripped the situation quickly.
• Can the council grip the housing crisis?

Similar words: get to grips with, tackle

Common phrases: grip the problem, grip the situation, grip this issue

A firm hold on something, or the way you hold it in your hand.

• His grip was strong.
• She loosened her grip on the rope.
• Try a different grip when you hold the racket.

How to use it: a grip on something (She kept a firm grip on the child's hand.)

Similar words: hold, grasp

Common phrases: firm grip, tight grip, grip on something, loose grip

A handle or part of something designed or suitable for holding with your hand.

• The handle has a rubber grip.
• I replaced the worn grips on my bicycle.
• The climber found a good grip in the rock.

Similar words: handle, handhold

Common phrases: rubber grip, racket grip, handlebar grip, comfortable grip

The ability of something to stay firmly against a surface without sliding.

• These shoes have good grip.
• The tires lost grip on the icy road.
• Does this rubber provide enough grip in the rain?

How to use it: grip on a surface (These boots have good grip on wet rocks.)

Similar words: traction, adhesion

Common phrases: good grip, poor grip, lose grip, grip on something

A device or part of a device that holds something firmly in place.

• The grip holds the cable in place.
• Tighten both grips before starting the machine.
• The bolt's grip passes through the joined plates.

Similar words: clamp, holder

Common phrases: cable grip, mechanical grip, bolt grip