ENGLISH
REFERENCE

latch on

phr. v..
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford Informal

phr. v.. to grab or attach yourself to something suddenly — often used for physical contact or adopting an idea quickly.

phr. v.. to grasp or fasten onto something suddenly; can also mean to adopt an idea or attitude eagerly; marked informal register.


SIMPLE

He latched on to the ladder to climb up.

CONTEXTUAL

The child latched on to her mother's hand when she saw the dog.

COMPLEX

The investor latched on to the opportunity, seeing potential others missed.

Particles
on
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
latch + on + to + object
Usage

typically followed by a direct object — the thing being grabbed or the idea being adopted.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'grab onto' (more common) and 'cling to' (more emotional); note the figurative use in business or personal development contexts.

Pitfall

He latched on the ladder.He latched on to the ladder.'to' is required after 'on' when indicating physical attachment or adoption of an idea.

© 2026 English Reference