grappling: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, journalistic, and technical (martial arts).
Quick answer
What does “grappling” mean?
Engaging in a close physical struggle or fight, trying to gain control through holds and grips.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Engaging in a close physical struggle or fight, trying to gain control through holds and grips.
Struggling with or attempting to deal with a difficult problem, concept, or situation.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both variants use the word identically. The martial art "grappling" is equally common in both regions.
Connotations
In UK English, slightly more literary when used metaphorically. In US English, more frequent in sports journalism.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in American English due to greater prominence of mixed martial arts (MMA) coverage.
Grammar
How to Use “grappling” in a Sentence
grappling with [problem/issue/concept]grappling for [control/position/advantage]grappling against [opponent/adversity]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “grappling” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The politicians spent the debate grappling over the finer points of the policy.
- She was grappling with the decision all night.
American English
- The two fighters grappled for dominance on the mat.
- The city is grappling with a major homelessness crisis.
adjective
British English
- The grappling techniques were demonstrated by the champion.
American English
- He excels in grappling sports like wrestling and judo.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
The board is grappling with declining quarterly profits.
Academic
Scholars have been grappling with this philosophical paradox for centuries.
Everyday
I'm still grappling with the instructions for the new telly.
Technical
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, ground grappling is a fundamental component.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “grappling”
- Confusing 'grappling' with 'groping' (which means searching blindly).
- Using 'grappling' for simple problem-solving without the connotation of a hard struggle.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is very commonly used metaphorically to describe struggling with difficult problems, ideas, or emotions.
While similar, 'wrestling' often refers to a specific sport with rules. 'Grappling' is the broader, more general act of seizing and struggling, and is the preferred term in martial arts (e.g., 'ground grappling') and metaphorical use.
Yes, it can imply earnest and courageous engagement with a challenge, e.g., 'grappling with one's demons' or 'grappling with a complex theory' shows effort and determination.
A device with multiple hooks (claws) attached to a rope, thrown to catch on a ledge or wall, used for climbing or boarding ships.
Engaging in a close physical struggle or fight, trying to gain control through holds and grips.
Grappling is usually formal, journalistic, and technical (martial arts). in register.
Grappling: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡræp.lɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡræp.lɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “come to grips with (a close conceptual synonym)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a GRAPPLing hook: it GRAsPs and PULLs, just like grappling involves grasping and pulling in a struggle.
Conceptual Metaphor
DIFFICULTIES ARE PHYSICAL OPPONENTS (e.g., grappling with grief, grappling with a complex equation).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'grappling' LEAST appropriate?