grasp at
US /ɡræsp æt/
UK /ɡræsp æt/
1.
to try to take hold of something quickly and eagerly
:
•
He grasped at the rope as he fell.
•
She grasped at the opportunity to travel.
2.
to try to understand or believe something, often desperately or without much basis
:
•
He was grasping at straws, trying to find any excuse.
•
The politician was grasping at popularity by making empty promises.