CATCH AT Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "catch at" is an idiomatic expression that typically means to seize or grasp an opportunity or an idea quickly and eagerly. It represents the act of recognizing and taking advantage of a situation or suggestion promptly and enthusiastically.
When someone catches at something, they are acting swiftly and eagerly in response to a particular situation or proposition. It implies a level of agility and responsiveness, as if one is ready to pounce on an opportunity without hesitation. This phrase often denotes a positive or proactive mindset, where an individual is actively seeking possibilities and actively engaging with new concepts or proposals.
"Catch at" can also indicate the act of perceiving or understanding something quickly, as if one swiftly grasps the meaning or significance of a particular situation or statement. In this sense, it conveys the notion of quick comprehension or discernment.
The phrase "catch at" can be traced back to its literal meaning of physically capturing or grappling with an object, but in its figurative sense, it relates more to the mental and emotional seizing of opportunities, ideas, or understanding. It implies a kind of receptiveness, readiness, and a willingness to act promptly and decisively.
Common Misspellings for CATCH AT
- xatch at
- vatch at
- fatch at
- datch at
- cztch at
- cstch at
- cwtch at
- cqtch at
- carch at
- cafch at
- cagch at
- caych at
- ca6ch at
- ca5ch at
- catxh at
- catvh at
- catfh at
- catdh at
- catcg at
- catcb at
- catchat
Etymology of CATCH AT
The phrase "catch at" is a combination of two separate words: "catch" and "at". Here is the etymology of each word:
1. Catch: The word "catch" originated in Old English as "caeccan", which meant "to catch, grasp, or seize". It can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "kakjanan", meaning "to grasp or take hold of". The word has evolved over time and retained its primary meaning of capturing or seizing something.
2. At: The word "at" is a preposition that has been present in Old English as "æt". It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "at", which had a similar meaning of "at" or "by". This word has remained relatively unchanged in English and continues to serve as a preposition indicating position or location.
Idioms with the word CATCH AT
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catch at a bad time
To catch someone at a bad time means to approach or contact them at a moment when they are not in a good position to give you their attention or help. It implies that the person is busy, preoccupied, or facing difficulties and may not be able to accommodate your request or give you their full attention.
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catch at (a) straw(s)
The idiom "catch at (a) straw(s)" refers to a desperate attempt or effort to find a solution or remedy, even if it is unlikely to be successful. It comes from the image of a drowning person who grasps at a floating straw in hopes of staying afloat, despite the slim chance of it actually helping them. Thus, "catch at (a) straw(s)" implies a last-ditch effort to grasp any possible chance, no matter how small, when facing a difficult situation.
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catch at (something)
The idiom "catch at (something)" typically means to eagerly or hastily grasp at an opportunity or suggestion. It implies that someone is quick to seize a chance, often with great excitement or enthusiasm.
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catch at
To eagerly seize or grasp at an opportunity or idea; to eagerly accept or take advantage of something.
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