握る

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 握る is read as にぎる and is a transitive verb meaning to grip something in the hand or, figuratively, to take control of authority or power.
• Basic usage: A physical grip appears in 手を強く握る, while control appears in 実権を握る.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Literal and figurative senses
  • を can mark either an object held firmly in the hand or authority brought under control.
• Difference from 掴む
  • 掴む also broadly means seizing something quickly or grasping an opportunity or point; 握る suits holding in the hand or controlling power.