Meaning
Clinch has several meanings depending on context:
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Verb
- To succeed in achieving or winning something (e.g., clinch a deal, clinch a victory).
- To secure firmly or settle something decisively.
- In fighting/wrestling/boxing, to hold someone tightly to prevent movement.
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Noun
- A firm hold, especially in fighting or wrestling.
- The act of securing or finalizing something.
Grammar and Usage
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Verb (transitive/intransitive):
- clinch something → to settle or secure it.
- clinch with someone → to hold tightly (especially in boxing).
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Common structures:
- "clinch a deal/victory/title" (to secure it)
- "clinch with the opponent" (to grab or hold)
Common Phrases
- clinch a deal – to secure a business agreement.
- clinch a victory – to ensure success or win.
- in a clinch – locked in a tight hold (often in sports).
Collocations
- verb + clinch: finally clinch, quickly clinch, nearly clinch
- noun + clinch: a tight clinch, final clinch, romantic clinch
- clinch + noun: clinch the title, clinch the win, clinch the bargain
Examples
- The team scored in the last minute to clinch the victory.
- He worked hard to clinch a deal with the new client.
- The boxer moved into a clinch to stop his opponent’s punches.
- Her performance in the final interview clinched the job.
- They sealed the contract with a handshake that clinched the agreement.
- The couple was seen in a romantic clinch at the airport.
- Good communication can often clinch success in negotiations.
- He hopes to clinch the championship this season.
Synonyms or Related
- For securing something: secure, finalize, confirm, seal, lock in.
- For physical hold: grasp, grip, hold, embrace.