ENGLISH
REFERENCE

grabbing

v. · n.
US //ˈɡɹæbɪŋ// UK //ɡɹˈæbɪŋ// grab·bing
  1. 1 taking with hands (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    taking hold of something suddenly or roughly with your hand.

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

    Example

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

    Example

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

  2. 2 getting quickly (v.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal

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

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

    Example

    We are grabbing a quick sandwich before the movie starts.

    Example

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

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  1. 3 attracting attention (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    getting someone's attention or interest immediately.

    capturing or attracting interest, attention, or imagination effectively.

    Example

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

    Example

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

  2. 4 the act of snatching (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    the physical action of trying to take something quickly.

    the instance or act of snatching or seizing something.

    Example

    The sudden grabbing of the microphone surprised the speaker.

    Example

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

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