There are many synonyms for the phrase "catches hold of," including grasps, seizes, clutches, grips, latches onto, takes hold of, snatches, captures, holds onto, hooks, clamps down on, and clings to. These words all convey the idea of someone or something grabbing onto or securing a hold on something else. The exact synonym used may depend on the context and the intensity of the action, with some words implying a quick and sudden motion while others suggest a stronger and more sustained grip. Regardless of the exact word used, synonyms for "catches hold of" all convey a sense of physical control and contact between two objects.