To cling to something or someone physically; to hang onto.
子どもが母親の服にすがって離れようとしなかった。
The child clung to his mother's clothes and wouldn't let go.
犬が飼い主の足にすがるように寄り添っていた。
The dog snuggled up as if clinging to its owner’s legs.
崖の岩にすがって、彼は何とか助かった。
He hung onto the cliff rock and somehow survived.
To rely on or depend upon someone or something (emotionally or materially).
彼は親の財産にすがって暮らしている。
He lives off his parents' money.
薬にすがるばかりではなく、自分でも努力するべきだ。
You shouldn't just depend on medicine; you should also make an effort yourself.
いつまでも人の助けにすがるわけにはいかない。
You can't keep depending on other people's help forever.
To implore or entreat someone desperately; to beg for help or mercy.
被災者たちは救援隊にすがるように助けを求めた。
The disaster victims pleaded with the rescue team for help.
彼女は涙を浮かべて医者にすがって治療を頼んだ。
With tears, she implored the doctor to treat her.
「お願いします！」と彼は上官にすがって頼んだ。
"Please!" he begged his superior.