clinch meaning and examples

2025-08-23

Meaning

Clinch has several meanings depending on context:

  1. 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.

  2. Noun

    • A firm hold, especially in fighting or wrestling.
    • The act of securing or finalizing something.

Grammar and Usage

  • Verb (transitive/intransitive):

    • clinch something → to settle or secure it.
    • clinch with someone → to hold tightly (especially in boxing).

  • 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

  1. The team scored in the last minute to clinch the victory.
  2. He worked hard to clinch a deal with the new client.
  3. The boxer moved into a clinch to stop his opponent’s punches.
  4. Her performance in the final interview clinched the job.
  5. They sealed the contract with a handshake that clinched the agreement.
  6. The couple was seen in a romantic clinch at the airport.
  7. Good communication can often clinch success in negotiations.
  8. He hopes to clinch the championship this season.
  • For securing something: secure, finalize, confirm, seal, lock in.
  • For physical hold: grasp, grip, hold, embrace.