English idiom

get a grip

Register · Informal CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

regain composure and think calmly after becoming upset

Word picture

Emotional control is pictured as a firm physical hold that keeps something from slipping away.

Example

“After a few deep breaths, Maya got a grip and explained the problem clearly.”

Dictionary details

Component words

grip

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

breathe down someone's neck

to monitor someone so closely that they feel pressured or uncomfortable

get carried away

to become so excited or involved that you lose control

get the better of

to defeat someone or gain control over a person or feeling

blow off steam

to release pent-up energy or emotion through some activity

cut loose

to abandon restraint and behave freely or wildly

drive someone up the wall

to make someone feel extremely annoyed or frustrated

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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