# latch on

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

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

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

## Examples

- He latched on to the ladder to climb up.
- The child latched on to her mother's hand when she saw the dog.
- The investor latched on to the opportunity, seeing potential others missed.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He latched on the ladder." but "He latched on to the ladder." — 'to' is required after 'on' when indicating physical attachment or adoption of an idea.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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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.