grasp at something—
1. try to seize smth.; grab at smth.:
- As Timmy grasped at the branch, the last ounce of energy was depleted from his small arms.
2. accept smth. (such as an offer, proposal, etc.) most eagerly:
- Neoconservative politicians have readily grasped at the opportunity.
grasp something—
1. seize and hold smth. firmly with the hand:
- Grasping the leaves of the plant firmly, pull the whole plant up out of the ground.
2. comprehend smth.:
- Kitty only imperfectly grasped the rudiments of the science.