English Reference
verb · noun

grabbing

v. · n.
US /ˈɡɹæbɪŋ/ UK /ɡɹˈæbɪŋ/ grab·bing UK spelling grabbings

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    v.taking hold of something suddenly or roughly with your hand.

    v.the act of seizing or grasping something suddenly, often with force or without warning.

    Simple

    He was grabbing his bags from the overhead bin as soon as the plane landed.

    In context

    The child was caught grabbing toys from the other children, leading to a brief discussion about the importance of sharing.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate Informal

    v.getting something, like food or a coffee, in a quick and informal way.

    v.obtaining or consuming something quickly, typically used in informal contexts regarding meals or drinks.

    Simple

    We are grabbing a quick sandwich before the movie starts.

    In context

    After the conference, several delegates were seen grabbing a coffee at the station while waiting for their respective trains.

    gettingpicking up
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.getting someone's attention or interest immediately.

    v.capturing or attracting interest, attention, or imagination effectively.

    Simple

    The bright colors of the poster were grabbing everyone's attention.

    In context

    The opening scene of the documentary was particularly effective at grabbing the audience's interest by presenting a startling statistic.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Formal

    n.the physical action of trying to take something quickly.

    n.the instance or act of snatching or seizing something.

    Simple

    The sudden grabbing of the microphone surprised the speaker.

    In context

    The illegal grabbing of land by large corporations has become a major point of contention in the local political landscape.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated