A drowning man will clutch at a straw

Definitie & Betekenis van "a drowning man will clutch at a straw"

a drowning man will clutch at a straw

used to suggest that when people are facing a crisis or are in danger, they will try anything to save themselves, even if their efforts are unlikely to succeed

Proverb

What is the origin of the proverb "a drowning man will clutch at a straw" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "a drowning man will clutch at a straw" can be traced back to at least the 16th century, with early references in English literature, including Thomas More's 'Dialogue of Comfort Against Tribulation' (1534). It highlights how fear and urgency can lead individuals to rely on anything, no matter how ineffective. This proverb serves as a reminder that desperation can cloud judgment, causing people to place hope in things that may not truly help.

Example

Acknowledging that a drowning man will clutch at a straw, the defendant grasped at the flimsy alibi even though it appeared implausible, hoping it might provide some reprieve from the charges against him.