Hang/hold on for/like grim death
phrase
To grip something very tightly, especially when frightened or in danger.
During the rollercoaster ride, he held on like grim death.
Often appears as...
- hang on like grim death to
- hold on for grim death by
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial,Idiomatic
phrase
To stay very determined and make intense effort to maintain a situation or position.
She is holding on for grim death to keep her position in the team.
Often appears as...
- hang on for grim death in
- hold on like grim death to
Usage tips
General,Idiomatic
phrase
To grip something very tightly, especially when frightened or in danger.
During the rollercoaster ride, he held on like grim death.
Often appears as...
- hang on like grim death to
- hold on for grim death by
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial,Idiomatic
phrase
To stay very determined and make intense effort to maintain a situation or position.
She is holding on for grim death to keep her position in the team.
Often appears as...
- hang on for grim death in
- hold on like grim death to
Usage tips
General,Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Literal Grip
Used when someone physically hangs onto something very tightly so they won't fall or be thrown off.
She hung on to the boat's railing like grim death during the storm.
Pro Tip 2/3Fearful Connotation
Implies extreme fear or anxiety while holding on, often during a dangerous situation.
During the earthquake, he held on for grim death to the doorframe.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Casual
More appropriate for serious or dramatic contexts, not casually used in everyday conversation.
On the highest cliff, the hiker clung on like grim death to the rope.
Pro Tip 1/3Literal Grip
Used when someone physically hangs onto something very tightly so they won't fall or be thrown off.
She hung on to the boat's railing like grim death during the storm.
Pro Tip 2/3Fearful Connotation
Implies extreme fear or anxiety while holding on, often during a dangerous situation.
During the earthquake, he held on for grim death to the doorframe.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Casual
More appropriate for serious or dramatic contexts, not casually used in everyday conversation.
On the highest cliff, the hiker clung on like grim death to the rope.
Pro Tip 1/3Literal Grip
Used when someone physically hangs onto something very tightly so they won't fall or be thrown off.
She hung on to the boat's railing like grim death during the storm.
Pro Tip 2/3Fearful Connotation
Implies extreme fear or anxiety while holding on, often during a dangerous situation.
During the earthquake, he held on for grim death to the doorframe.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Casual
More appropriate for serious or dramatic contexts, not casually used in everyday conversation.
On the highest cliff, the hiker clung on like grim death to the rope.
Never forget "Hang/hold on for/like grim death"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension