[chrisseaton]

> grab a donut

Funny question, but in the US does 'grabbing' something not have a bad connotation? When I hear 'grab a donut' my English mind sees you smashing your fist through the glass of the counter, taking a doughnut, and running off.

[swozey]

"Wanna grab a beer/drink?" is one of the most common invites I've heard for going out. So no, no negative connotations.

[taormina]

'Snatch' might be more of a negative connotation? Grab feels pretty neutral.

[yellowapple]

It definitely depends on context, and possibly locality/dialect. I have heard (and used) "snatch", "snag", "grab", and "steal" here quite often.

[BenjiWiebe]

It has no negative connotation to my born-and-raised-in-the-US mind. The only thing it implies to me is being in a hurry.

[Retra]

It may even have that connotation, but even so, using it for flair is perfectly acceptable. In fact, there's nothing bad about your mental image, as it would only be humorous.

[aswanson]

I legit got a laugh out of that. Thanks.

[aswanson]

There is however, a "smash-and-grab" phrase in the US which fits your imagery perfectly.

[rexpop]

Not at all. It convey's minute commitment; both brief and trivial.