Grapple

To grapple is to engage in a close fight or struggle without weapons; to contend with a difficulty, or to seize and hold something firmly. It implies a physical or figurative struggle, often with a degree of difficulty or opposition. The term can be used in a literal or metaphorical sense, describing both physical combat and the act of dealing with complex problems or emotions. Often, a sense of determined effort and overcoming an obstacle is present. The word emphasizes persistence and the exertion of considerable effort in achieving a goal or resolving a conflict. It's a term charged with intensity, signifying resistance, resilience, and an active involvement in an encounter.

Grapple meaning with examples

• The soldiers began to grapple with the enemy, quickly closing in and engaging in hand-to-hand combat. They struggled for control, desperate to push the enemy back. The battle was fierce, a chaotic scramble for survival amidst the smoke and roar of cannons. The soldiers fought relentlessly, grappleing against overwhelming odds to secure their positions.
• She had to grapple with the sudden loss of her job. It was difficult to maintain a positive attitude and face the unknown. The situation became increasingly problematic as her finances dwindled. She found herself grappleing with feelings of anxiety and despair, as the situation left her with an uncertain future.
• As a kid, he learned to grapple with the fundamentals of math. It was an ongoing challenge, requiring patience and dedication. He consistently worked to understand the complex formulas, even when it seemed impossible. Each equation was a test, a chance to grapple and prove his skill. He persevered until he understood each problem.
• The mountaineer had to grapple with the icy rocks to secure a hold, working to maintain his precarious position. The bitter cold was not his only enemy, as the wind threatened to blow him off the mountain. He had to dig in his climbing spikes and push his way higher. Each handhold and foothold took an enormous amount of effort.