grappling

[grap-ling] / ˈgræp lɪŋ /

VERB

grab, wrestle

Synonyms

STRONGEST

confront contend cope deal with

STRONG

attack battle catch clash clasp close clutch combat encounter engage face fasten fight grasp grip hold hook hug nab nail scuffle seize snatch struggle tackle take tussle

WEAK

do battle take on

Antonyms

STRONG

agree avoid be immune cancel disconnect dodge free give idle let go liberate lose make peace misunderstand offer open receive refuse reject release retreat run stop support surrender unfasten unlock yield

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.

See Examples For:

grappling

Less than two disappointing seasons into Underwood’s career, Michigan is grappling with buyer’s remorse—and the Wolverines aren’t alone.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 4, 2026

The dynamic between Leo, who runs a bar filled with young queer and trans employees, and Clive, whose teenage son is grappling with his own sexuality, required true intensity.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 2, 2026

Those affected can wait years for diagnosis, and there is no cure - meaning women are left grappling with debilitating pain that can affect their relationships, work, education and mental health.

From BBC ● Sep. 30, 2026

In addition to grappling with the loss of state money for Flock cameras, some local officials face a financial hit because vehicle authority grants are given as reimbursements.

From Salon ● Sep. 28, 2026

I asked, committing myself to nothing until I knew the kind of reality I was grappling with.

From "Black Boy" by Richard Wright