Definition

1. Noun:

   • An unforeseen obstacle or difficulty: A "snag" is a hidden or unexpected problem that causes a delay or complication.
   • A sharp or jagged protuberance: A "snag" is a rough, sharp, or projecting part, often on a tree or branch, that can catch or tear things.
   • A tear or hole caused by catching on something sharp: A "snag" can refer to the damage itself, such as a run in a stocking or a rip in fabric.
   • A dead tree that is still standing: In forestry or ecology, a "snag" is a dead tree, often providing habitat for wildlife.

2. Verb:

   • To catch or tear on a sharp projection: To "snag" something means to catch, tear, or damage it on a sharp or rough object.
   • To obtain or acquire quickly or cleverly: To "snag" something means to get it, often with a sense of seizing an opportunity or getting a good deal.
   • To hew or cut jaggedly: To "snag" can mean to cut or shape something in a rough, uneven way.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:

  • We hit a snag in our plans when the main speaker canceled. (An unforeseen obstacle)
  • My sweater caught on a snag in the wooden fence. (A sharp protuberance)
  • There's a snag in my tights from this morning. (A tear or hole)
  • The forest ranger pointed out a snag that was home to woodpeckers. (A standing dead tree)

• Verb:

  • I snagged my jacket on a nail. (To catch/tear)
  • She managed to snag the last ticket to the concert. (To obtain quickly)
  • The lumber was snagged and rough. (To hew jaggedly)

Advanced Usage

• "To hit a snag": To encounter an unexpected problem.

  • The construction project hit a snag when they discovered unstable ground.

• "Snag a seat/spot": To quickly secure a place.

  • Arrive early if you want to snag a good seat.

Variants and Related Words

• Snagged (adj): Caught or torn on a snag; obtained.

  • He wore snagged jeans.
  • She got snagged tickets.

• Snaggy (adj): Full of snags; rough or jagged.

  • The snaggy branches made it hard to pass.

Synonyms

• Noun (obstacle): Hitch, complication, setback, difficulty.
• Noun (protuberance): Jag, barb, projection.
• Verb (catch): Catch, tear, rip, hook.
• Verb (obtain): Grab, seize, secure, get.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

(Note: "Snag" is not commonly used in phrasal verb constructions. Its verbal uses are typically transitive.)

Related Idioms

• "A snag in the works": An unexpected problem in a process or plan.
  • Everything was going smoothly until we found a snag in the works with the software.

Noun

1. an unforeseen obstacle
2. an opening made forcibly as by pulling apart
   • there was a rip in his pants
   • she had snags in her stockings
3. a dead tree that is still standing, usually in an undisturbed forest
   • a snag can provide food and a habitat for insects and birds
4. a sharp protuberance

Verb

1. hew jaggedly
2. get by acting quickly and smartly
   • snag a bargain
3. catch on a snag
   • I snagged my stocking