[grasp|clutch] at straws
1
to be willing to do whatever necessary to improve one's current situation, regardless of one's chance of success
The idiom "grasp at straws" originates from the practice of a drowning person desperately trying to save themselves by reaching for any floating straws or objects within their reach. Figuratively, it is now used to describe a situation where someone is in a state of extreme desperation, willing to consider even the most unlikely or feeble solutions to their problems.
- I would have even grasped at the straw of anti-depressants.
- Despite the company's financial troubles, the CEO was grasping at straws, hoping for a miraculous turnaround.
- When faced with a failing business, he began to clutch at straws, exploring unconventional strategies in the hope of saving it.
- She was desperate to repair her damaged reputation and was grasping at straws by seeking public sympathy.
- In the midst of a complex legal case, the defendant's lawyer was clutching at straws, presenting weak arguments to the jury.