clutch

To hold something very tightly in your hand or arms.

• She clutched my hand.
• He stood at the door, clutching a small bag.
• The child clutched at her sleeve as the bus arrived.

How to use it: clutch at someone/something (He clutched at the rope as he slipped.)

Similar words: grip, grasp

Opposites: release

Common phrases: clutch a bag, clutch at something, clutch something tightly

To take hold of something suddenly or eagerly, especially power or an opportunity.

• He tried to clutch power for himself.
• She clutched at every opportunity to gain influence.
• The ruler clutched control before his rivals could act.

How to use it: clutch at something (They clutched at the chance to take power.)

Similar words: seize, grab

Common phrases: clutch power, clutch at power, clutch an opportunity

To win a team game when you are the last player left against several opponents.

• Can you clutch this round?
• She clutched the match after all her teammates fell.
• He clutched against three opponents with almost no health left.

Common phrases: clutch a round, clutch the match

A machine part that connects or separates an engine and the parts it drives, allowing gear changes.

• The clutch needs replacing.
• A worn clutch can make gear changes difficult.
• The mechanic repaired the clutch in our car.

Common phrases: car clutch, worn clutch, replace a clutch, clutch mechanism

The pedal you press with your foot to separate the engine from the wheels when changing gears.

• Press the clutch with your left foot.
• He released the clutch too quickly.
• Keep the clutch down while you select a gear.

Common phrases: press the clutch, release the clutch, clutch pedal