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How to Say "grip" in Spanish

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puño

/POO-nyo//ˈpuɲo/

nounB2figurative
Use 'puño' when referring to a figurative or metaphorical hold of power or control, often associated with dominance or force.
A giant hand holding a miniature castle in its palm, symbolizing absolute control or domination.

Examples

El dictador mantenía un puño férreo sobre el país.

The dictator maintained an iron grip on the country.

El presidente gobernaba con puño de hierro, sin aceptar críticas.

The president governed with an iron fist, without accepting criticism.

Solo quedaba un puño de monedas en la caja.

Only a handful of coins remained in the box.

garras

/GAH-rrahs//ˈɡaras/

nounB2figurative
Use 'garras' when describing a situation where someone is trapped or caught in a difficult, often dangerous, predicament.
A large shadow of a hand looming over a small, worried mouse.

Examples

Logró escapar de las garras de la deuda.

Logró escapar de las garras del enemigo.

He managed to escape from the enemy's clutches.

La ciudad está en las garras de una tormenta.

The city is in the grip of a storm.

Puño vs. Garras

Learners often confuse 'puño' and 'garras' because both can describe a type of hold. Remember that 'puño' implies control or power (like an iron fist), while 'garras' suggests being trapped or caught in something negative.

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