Alternative form of grasp at straws

Alternative form of grasp at straws

Alternative form of grasp at straws

(idiomatic) To guess randomly or pursue any apparent option, due to a lack of clear choices or information. / (idiomatic) To get hold of any help, even if it is insignificant.

To decide at random by drawing (selecting randomly between) straws, sticks, etc., one of which differs from the others (typically by being shorter), held in a person's hand so as to conceal which is the different one. Typically, whoever draws the short straw must complete some undesirable task.

a long, thin cheese-flavoured pastry.

(idiomatic, archaic) A farmer's servant, especially a thresher.

(slang, obsolete) A professional false witness hired by an unscrupulous attorney. Such a man would frequent the vicinity of a courthouse and show his intention and availability by a straw sticking from one of his shoes.

A doll or scarecrow, particularly one stuffed with straw. / (figuratively) An innocuous person or someone of nominal or lesser importance, as a front man or straw boss.

To falsely attribute an insubstantial argument (a straw man argument) to another through direct declaration or indirect implication; to put words in someone's mouth.