ENGLISH
REFERENCE

leap at

phr. v..
B1 Intermediate Oxford General-service

phr. v.. to seize an opportunity eagerly or to react strongly to something sudden.

phr. v.. to accept or grasp an opportunity with enthusiasm; to respond impulsively to a stimulus, often implying eagerness or promptness.


SIMPLE

She leaped at the chance to study abroad.

CONTEXTUAL

When the promotion was offered, he leaped at it immediately.

COMPLEX

The investor leaped at the opportunity, despite the risks involved, seeing untapped potential.

Particles
at
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
leap + at + object
Usage

typically followed by an opportunity, chance, or sudden event.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'grab' (more immediate) and 'seize' (more formal); 'leap at' implies eagerness and is common in everyday speech.

Pitfall

He leaped to the chance.He leaped at the chance.the preposition 'at' is required; 'leap to' means something different (to jump toward something).

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