Definition

Verb: 1. To adopt or take up (new ideas, beliefs, or attitudes): To begin to accept, use, or support a new concept, theory, or way of thinking. 2. To seize upon or latch onto (an idea, phrase, or concept): To focus attention on something, often with eagerness or determination, making it a central point of discussion or belief.

Usage

The verb "fasten on" is used to describe the act of adopting an idea or focusing intently on a specific point. It often implies a deliberate or eager acceptance. * It is typically used with an object (e.g., fasten on an idea, fasten on a phrase). * It can be used in both active and passive voices.

Examples

• The marketing team quickly fastened on the new trend for their campaign.
• He fastened on a single comment in the report and wouldn't discuss anything else.
• Once the theory was proposed, many researchers fastened on it and began testing its principles.
• A catchy slogan was fastened on by the public and soon became widely used.

Advanced Usage

• "Fasten on to": This variant is very common and often interchangeable with "fasten on," emphasizing the connection or attachment to the idea.
  • The media fastened on to the scandal and reported on it for weeks.
• The phrase can imply a degree of uncritical or enthusiastic acceptance, sometimes to the exclusion of other considerations.

Variants and Related Words

• Fasten (verb): To close or attach securely. (e.g., )
• Latch on (to) (phrasal verb): A close synonym meaning to understand, adopt, or become attached to an idea. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Adopt
• Embrace
• Seize upon
• Latch onto
• Take up

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Fasten onto: As noted in Advanced Usage, this is a common variant of "fasten on."
  • She fastened onto the concept of sustainability and made it her life's work.

Related Idioms

• To hook onto: Similar to "fasten on," meaning to become attached to or preoccupied with an idea.
  • He hooked onto the idea and wouldn't let it go.

Verb

1. adopt
   • take up new ideas