# latch on to

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/latch-on-to
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to grab or attach yourself to something, often in a sudden or eager way.

For teachers: to seize or grasp something suddenly or eagerly; often used metaphorically to describe attaching oneself to an idea, opportunity, or person. The phrasal verb is separable, though 'on to' is typically kept together in modern usage.

## Examples

- He latched on to the idea immediately.
- The child latched on to the toy as soon as it was handed to her.
- The company latched on to the new market trend, leading to rapid growth.

## Pitfalls

- Not "She latched on the opportunity." but "She latched on to the opportunity." — 'to' is required after 'on' in this phrasal verb; omitting it creates a grammatical error.

## Usage notes

- typically followed by a direct object — the thing being grabbed or attached to.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'grab' (more physical) and 'cling to' (more emotional); 'latch on to' implies suddenness and often metaphorical attachment.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.