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.
Let us go at once," said the detective; "drowning men, they say, catch at straws.
From The Burglar's Fate And The Detectives by Pinkerton, Allan
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
“What’s that?” exclaimed several of the men eagerly, catching at their comrade’s words as drowning men are said to catch at straws.
From The Red Eric by Ballantyne, R. M. (Robert Michael)
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
"Or you would have gone on horseback," said his wife, ever ready to catch at straws.
From 'Lena Rivers by Holmes, Mary Jane
