grasp at straws

Idioms  

1. Also, clutch at straws. Make a desperate attempt at saving oneself. For example, He had lost the argument, but he kept grasping at straws, naming numerous previous cases that had little to do with this one. This metaphoric expression alludes to a drowning person trying to save himself by grabbing at flimsy reeds. First recorded in 1534, the term was used figuratively by the late 1600s.

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Example Sentences

And they grasp at straws to “prove” themselves right.

From Washington Post • Feb. 27, 2023

You can almost hear the frantic writing of a thousand Apple computers as Carter and his staff grasp at straws to keep their fan base alive.

From Salon • Feb. 16, 2011

Even great artists grasp at straws for assistance, and it is interesting to know that to Miss Garden a wig is the all important thing.

From Interpreters by Van Vechten, Carl

It is said that drowning men will grasp at straws.

From Gifts of Genius A Miscellany of Prose and Poetry by American Authors by Various

Love, madame," rejoined the commandant sentimentally, "clings to forlorn hopes, and in its sea of trouble will grasp at straws.

From Alvira, the Heroine of Vesuvius by O'Reilly, A. J. (Augustine J.)