What are the definitions of “latch onto”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Connect to something.
The gecko LATCHED ONTO the ceiling.
- 2Decide or realise that something is good or profitable.
Oil companies have LATCHED ONTO environmental ideas.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “latch onto”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb latch onto is to connect or attach to something, like a gecko attaching itself to a ceiling. It can also mean to understand or realize that something is good or profitable.
What are the different verb forms of “latch onto”?
| Root Verb | latch onto |
| Third Person Singular Present | latches onto |
| Present Participle | latching onto |
| Simple Past | latched onto |
| Past Participle | latched onto |
Example
The baby bird latched onto its mother for warmth.
Example
She latches onto new ideas quickly.
Example
He is latching onto the new trend in fashion.
Example
They latched onto the opportunity to make a profit.
Example
The idea was latched onto by many people.
What kind of phrasal verb is “latch onto”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“latch onto” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The gecko latched onto the ceiling.
Example
Oil companies have latched onto environmental ideas.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“latch onto” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The gecko latched onto the ceiling.
Example
Oil companies have latched onto environmental ideas.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “latch onto”?
Latch onto someone
To become attached to someone, often in an annoying or overly dependent way.
Example
The little boy latched onto his mother's leg, refusing to let go.
Latch onto an idea
To quickly understand or become interested in a new idea or concept.
Example
She latched onto the new marketing strategy and implemented it immediately.
Latch onto a trend
To adopt or follow a popular trend or fashion.
Example
Fashion designers latched onto the retro style and started creating vintage-inspired clothing.
Good things to know
Does “latch onto” have an informal or formal tone?
Latch onto is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal discussions, depending on the specific context.
