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.
It is an old saying that 'drowning men catch at straws.'
From The Catholic World; Volume I, Issues 1-6 A Monthly Eclectic Magazine by Rameur, E.
V. overestimate, overrate, overvalue, overprize, overweigh, overreckon†, overstrain, overpraise; eulogize; estimate too highly, attach too much importance to, make mountains of molehills, catch at straws; strain, magnify; exaggerate &c.
From Roget's Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases by Roget, Peter Mark
"Or you would have gone on horseback," said his wife, ever ready to catch at straws.
From 'Lena Rivers by Holmes, Mary Jane
It is said drowning men catch at straws; the idea immediately came across my mind that, with the support of the stick, I should be enabled to effect my escape.
From The Emigrant's Lost Son or, Life Alone in the Forest by Anonymous
Notwithstanding its improbability, the idea takes, and is entertained, as drowning men catch at straws.
From The Death Shot A Story Retold by Reid, Mayne
