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to get a grip on oneself
01
to stop behaving foolishly or recklessly and gain full control of one's emotions and thoughts
![to [get] a grip on {oneself} definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44282/original/?type=jpeg "to [get] a grip on {oneself} definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "get a grip on oneself" and when to use it?
The idiom "get a grip on oneself" comes from the literal meaning of gripping something firmly for support or stability. Its origins trace back to the need for sailors to physically "get a grip" on rails or ropes when ships rocked in rough seas so they could stand steady on deck during storms. It is typically used when someone has become overly emotional, irrational, panicked, or out of control in some way due to circumstances or events that have caused them psychological imbalance. It implies the need to regain composure and clear-headedness.
Example
After getting fired, John needs to take a walk to get a grip on himself before talking to his wife.
When Sarah found out she did n't get the promotion, she had to get a grip on herself to keep from crying at her desk.
Once the panic of failing her exam subsides, Jenny will get a grip on herself and make a plan to study harder for the retake.
