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 will catch at straws, and Herbert, in his trouble, tried to think this was probably the way it had happened.
From Try and Trust by Alger, Horatio
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
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
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)
The American Board, I am sorry to feel and think, are good at attempting to catch at straws when important missionary objects have been faithfully placed before them.
From A History of Oregon, 1792-1849 Drawn From Personal Observation and Authentic Information by Gray, William Henry
