Clench vs. clinch

What does clench mean?

Clench is a physical action, mostly referring to tightening one’s hands, teeth, jaw or stomach.

For example:

• She clenched her fist.

What does clinch mean?

Clinch refers to achieving something after a long struggle.

For example:

• It’s time to clinch the deal.

• At the last minute, she scored a goal which clinched victory.

What’s the difference between clench and clench?

Clinch is a physical action while clinch means to achieve something.

For example:

• She clenched her jaw as she swung the ball into the goal, clinching victory for her team.