clinch

To do what is needed to make a victory or success certain.

• That goal clinched the victory.
• They need one more win to clinch the title.
• Can this offer clinch the deal?

Similar words: secure, seal

Opposites: lose

Common phrases: clinch a victory, clinch the title, clinch a deal

To settle a matter or provide the final reason for a decision.

• The low price clinched it.
• That final piece of evidence clinched the argument.
• Her promise of free delivery clinched my decision.

Similar words: settle, finalize

Common phrases: clinch it, clinch the argument, clinch the decision

To hold another boxer with your arms to stop them hitting you for a short time.

• The tired boxer began to clinch.
• She clinched with her opponent near the ropes.
• The referee stopped them from clinching again.

How to use it: clinch with someone (He clinched with his opponent to avoid another punch.)

Common phrases: clinch with someone, clinch an opponent

To close your hand, teeth, or another part of your body tightly.

• He clinched his fists.
• She clinched her teeth against the pain.
• The angry man stood with both hands clinched.

Similar words: clench

Common phrases: clinch your fist, clinch your teeth

A struggle in which two people hold each other closely, especially during boxing.

• The boxers were in a clinch.
• The referee broke up the clinch.
• They fell against the ropes during a clinch.

Common phrases: in a clinch, break a clinch, boxing clinch

A knot or fastening that holds a rope firmly in place.

• Tie a clinch in the rope.
• The sailor checked the clinch before leaving.
• A loose clinch allowed the line to slip.

Similar words: knot, fastening

Common phrases: tie a clinch, secure clinch, clinch knot

A firm hold on something, or something that keeps it firmly in place.

• He had a firm clinch on the weapon.
• Her clinch on his arm kept him from falling.
• He loosened his clinch and let the handle go.

How to use it: a clinch on something (He kept a firm clinch on the handle.)

Similar words: grip, hold

Common phrases: firm clinch, clinch on something