Phrasal verb
latch onto
Definition
phrasal verb. to become very interested in an idea or to stay close to a person because you find them useful or interesting.
phrasal verb. to attach oneself to someone or something, often suddenly or with great interest. The verb is transitive and typically implies an opportunistic or intense focus on the object.
Examples
“She tends to latch onto every new fashion trend she sees.”
“Some people at the party latched onto the host and wouldn't let him talk to anyone else.”
“Investors were quick to latch onto the startup's promise of high returns, ignoring the significant risks associated with the emerging market.”
Examples
simple
“She tends to latch onto every new fashion trend she sees.”
contextual
“Some people at the party latched onto the host and wouldn't let him talk to anyone else.”
complex
“Investors were quick to latch onto the startup's promise of high returns, ignoring the significant risks associated with the emerging market.”
Usage
The object is usually a person, a concept, or a specific piece of information.
Teaching tip
Use the physical image of a door latch to help students visualize the 'locking' or 'attaching' aspect of the figurative meaning.
Pitfall
He latched to the idea.
He latched onto the idea.
The phrase requires 'onto' or 'on to' rather than just 'to'.
Phrasal verb
Particles
onto
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
latch + onto + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/latch-onto