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reach for
/riːtʃ fɔːr/◆phrasal verb
to try to get something
She reached for the book on the top shelf.
She tried to get the book that was high up.
general
to extend one's hand or arm to take or touch something
He reached for the doorknob to open the door.
He extended his hand to grab the doorknob.
The child reached for the cookie on the table.
The child tried to grab the cookie.
This phrasal verb is commonly used to describe physical actions involving grasping or touching objects.
Collocations
reach for the starsto aim for ambitious goalsreach for the skyto stretch upward or aim high
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Physical vs. Metaphorical Use
While 'reach for' often describes physical actions, it can also be used metaphorically to describe efforts or attempts, such as 'reaching for a solution'.
Gold Rule
Correct Usage
Ensure that 'reach for' is used with an object or goal, as it implies direction or purpose.
Word Origin
Derived from the combination of the verb 'reach' (to extend one's hand) and the preposition 'for' (toward a goal or object).
Usage Notes
This phrasal verb is often used in everyday language to describe physical actions, but it can also be used metaphorically to describe efforts or attempts.
Word Breakdown
reach
to extend one's hand or arm
rootfor
toward a goal or object
prepositionEnglish Dictionary