Page 5 - Conversation 3

It was one day before Christmas Eve, and I had nothing in my fridge! In the end I had to serve
everyone with beans on toast… I was really clutching at straws there.

Feifei
So, we've had examples of people trying to fix a situation by doing something desperate or
extreme, but we also often use it when people say things that are a bit desperate, usually during
an argument. If their reasons for something are weak and a bit desperate, we can say they are
clutching at straws.

Georgie
Yes, and Feifei… I know I've only been at work for an hour, and I haven't done much… but I
already need a break. Do you think I deserve one?

Feifei
I think you're clutching at straws a bit there, Georgie… Here is another example. My son ate all
his vegetables at dinner last night, and afterwards, he asked me whether he could delay his
bedtime till midnight!

Georgie
It does sound like he was clutching at straws, but it was worth a try!

Feifei
OK, let's recap. We've learned 'clutch at straws', which means try to improve a difficult situation
by any means necessary, even if they're unlikely to work.

Georgie
Remember to check out our website: bbclearningenglish.com for more resources to help you
improve your English. Thanks for joining us. Bye!

Feifei
Bye!