hand · n
on the one hand . . . on the other hand
B2 used when you are comparing two different ideas or opinions
Dictionary examples:
On the one hand, computer games develop many skills, but on the other, they mean kids don't get enough exercise. (36.5)
hand in hand
B2 holding each other's hand
Dictionary examples:
The children walked hand in hand. (12.1)
go hand in hand
C1 If two things go hand in hand, they exist together and are connected with each other.
Dictionary examples:
Prosperity goes hand in hand with investment. (46.8)
at hand
C1 near in time or space
Dictionary examples:
Teachers are always close at hand to give help to any child who needs it. (20.5)
be in sb's hands
C1 to be in someone's control or care
Dictionary examples:
The matter is now in the hands of my lawyer. (24.5)
in safe hands
C1 being cared for or dealt with by someone skilled
Dictionary examples:
The project is in safe hands - Jan has lots of experience. (25.1)
with your bare hands
C2 without using a weapon or tool
Dictionary examples:
He broke the log in two with his bare hands! (56.2)
on hand
C2 near to someone or something, and ready to help or be used when necessary
Dictionary examples:
Extra supplies will be on hand, in case they are needed. (85.2)
get/lay your hands on sth
C2 to find something
Dictionary examples:
Do you know where I can lay my hands on a pair of scissors? (39.1)
in hand
C2 being worked on or dealt with now
Dictionary examples:
Don't worry – we have the situation in hand. (17.4)
have the upper hand
C2 to be in a stronger position than someone else so that you control a situation
Dictionary examples:
Government troops are gradually gaining the upper hand over the rebels. (64.7)
get out of hand
C2 to become difficult to control
Dictionary examples:
It was the end of week and the children were getting a little out of hand. (17.5)
a free hand
C2 permission to make your own decisions about how you want to do something
Dictionary examples:
The students were given a free hand as far as designing their projects was concerned. (38.2)
have your hands full
C2 to be very busy
Dictionary examples:
Shelley has her hands full with three kids under 5. (15.8)
take the law into your own hands
C2 to do something illegal in order to punish someone because you know that the law will not punish that person
Dictionary examples:
The police did nothing about the thefts, so they took the law into their own hands. (40.3)
hand
A1 the part of your body on the end of your arm that has fingers and a thumb
Dictionary examples:
My hand high-fived my face accidentally. (0.0)
My hand clapped my face accidentally. (0.0)
My hands are tired from waving. (0.0)
They walked by, holding hands. (13.4)
Take your hands out of your pockets! (16.0)
Hold your fork in your left hand and your knife in your right hand. (24.5)
You have to hold my hand when we cross the street. (25.9)
"Congratulations!" she said and shook my hand/shook hands with me. (55.4)
a hand
B1 some help, especially to do something practical
Dictionary examples:
Can you give me a hand? My cat thinks it's a dog. (0.0)
I need a hand convincing my alarm clock that weekends exist. (0.0)
Can you give me a hand? My homework ate my dog. (0.0)
I think Matthew might need a hand with his homework. (15.9)
Could you give me a hand with these suitcases? (17.0)
by hand
B1 done or made by a person instead of a machine
Dictionary examples:
He makes sushi by hand, but it always ends up looking like sad burritos. (0.0)
My grandma knits sweaters by hand, but they look like they're for aliens. (0.0)
He writes love letters by hand, but his handwriting looks like chicken scratches. (0.0)
This sweater has to be washed by hand. (12.6)