catch at straws

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Drowning men catch at straws, and the spectacled visage of the auctioneer, as he clings wildly to his rostrum, is a perfect study of terrified imbecility.

From English Caricaturists and Graphic Humourists of the Nineteenth Century. How they Illustrated and Interpreted their Times. by Everitt, Graham

They are only weak individualities who, in the act of drowning, catch at straws.

From The Strand Magazine, Volume V, Issue 30, June 1893 An Illustrated Monthly by Newnes, George

Not a few joined it, indeed, as a last resort, after having tried every thing else, as drowning men are said to catch at straws.

From Vegetable Diet: As Sanctioned by Medical Men, and by Experience in All Ages Including a System of Vegetable Cookery by Alcott, William A. (William Andrus)

At such times the mind, fearful for herself, catches at phrases and fancies, as drowning men catch at straws.

From An Old Meerschaum From Coals Of Fire And Other Stories, Volume II. (of III.) by Murray, David Christie

"Or you would have gone on horseback," said his wife, ever ready to catch at straws.

From 'Lena Rivers by Holmes, Mary Jane