to grapple
Third Person
grapples
Present Participle
grappling
Past Tense
grappled
Past Participle
grappled
1
to seize hold of someone forcefully or aggressively
transitive
- The police officer grappled the suspect's arm, preventing them from escaping.
- The security guard grappled the shoplifter, holding them until the authorities arrived.
- The teacher grappled the student who was causing a disturbance.
- In a fit of anger, he grappled his adversary, engaging in a physical altercation.
2
to engage in a determined effort to confront and resolve a problem or obstacle
transitive
- The team had to grapple with the complex task of integrating new technology into their existing infrastructure.
- She grappled with her fear of public speaking, seeking ways to overcome it and improve her confidence.
- The company had to grapple with the economic downturn.
- The student grappled with the concept of advanced calculus.
- He grappled with his inner demons, undergoing therapy and self-reflection to address past traumas.
3
to wrestle or struggle closely with someone, using hands or the body
- Every Saturday, the siblings playfully grapple in the backyard.
- Last week, he skillfully grappled with his opponent in the martial arts tournament.
- During the intense match, the athletes fiercely grappled for control on the wrestling mat.
- After the heated argument, they decided to physically grapple as a way to release pent-up frustration.
- Bystanders bravely grappled with the assailant following the knife attack, restraining him until the authorities arrived.
Synonyms: