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
But at the time I thought of none of these things—"drowning men will catch at straws," says the old adage—and my hastily formed plan seemed to me to promise success.
From Seven and Nine years Among the Camanches and Apaches An Autobiography by Johnson, Clark, M.D.
A new character appears, but not a very amiable one; but I attach myself to him, as drowning men catch at straws.
From Japhet, in Search of a Father by Marryat, Frederick
"Or you would have gone on horseback," said his wife, ever ready to catch at straws.
From 'Lena Rivers by Holmes, Mary Jane
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)
