clutches
n. plural-onlyn. the power or control that someone has over you, especially when they are cruel or dangerous. It often feels like being caught in someone's hands.
n. the power, control, or possession of a person or entity, typically implying a predatory or malevolent influence. Frequently used in the plural to describe an inescapable or threatening situation.
The hero finally escaped from the villain's clutches.
The small company struggled to stay independent and avoid falling into the clutches of its larger competitor.
The protagonist spends the final act of the novel attempting to liberate his family from the clutches of a corrupt legal system that refuses to acknowledge their innocence.
Almost exclusively used in the plural form when referring to control or power; takes a plural verb.
He fell into the clutch of the enemyHe fell into the clutches of the enemyIn the sense of power or control, the word is a pluralia tantum and must be used in the plural form.