Use of 'Hand' in phrases

The word ‘hand’ is used in a number of ways in different phrases. Let's find out more in this lesson:

The noun ‘hand’ refers to the body part at the end of your arm, including your fingers.

Example: Your hand has four fingers and a thumb.

‘Hand’ used as a verb means to pick something up and give it to someone.

Example: Can you please hand me that book?

On the one hand, on the other hand: We can also use the phrases "on the one hand" or "on the other hand" to talk about the two sides or aspects of a situation.

Example: On the one hand I’d like to go out tonight, but on the other hand I am trying to save money.

We can also use ‘hand’ to talk about asking someone to marry you.

Example: He asked for her hand in marriage.

We can also use ‘hand’ with a range of prepositions that change its meaning.

At hand: ‘At hand’ means close by or within reach.

Example: 1. Keep a torch at hand in case the electricity is cut off.

2. It would be best if we kept a spare tyre at hand in case we get a flat.

‘At hand’ can also refer to something that is current.

Example: Let’s look after the business at hand before we talk about new projects.

In hand: To have something ‘in hand’ means to have it under control.

Example: 1. By Friday night the arrangements for the party will be in hand.

2. She is doing a great job, she already has the new project in hand.

By hand: ‘By hand’ means made by the hands of a person, rather than a machine.

Example: 1. It is amazing to think this rug was made by hand.

2. You can only really trust things that are made by hand.