Idioms and expressions make language more interesting and vibrant. They are a very important part of speech and native speakers use them frequently. So in order to improve your English and have fluent conversations, it’s essencial to continue studying vocabulary and expressions.
Today we will look at common expressions using the word “hand”. They are used a lot in the English language, it will help you converse and understand native English dialogue.
Read the definitions of the expressions and then do the exercises at the end to put these expressions into practice.
– On hand – available for use.
Example: “My mum always has lots of food on hand”
– In hand – in your possession or control.
Example: “He has the situation well in hand”
– Out of hand – very quickly without serious thought.
Example: “He decided to go to Italy out of hand”
– Out of hand (2) – not controlled.
Example: “Her children were tired and quickly got out of hand, running everywhere”
– At hand – close in distance or time.
Example: “She always keeps her phone close at hand”
– At first hand – in a direct way
Example: “I was able to verify his statement at first hand”
– Eat out of someone’s hand – to be completely controlled by someone.
Example: “Her boyfriend has her eating out of his hand”
– Offhand – without premeditation or preparation.
Example: “I can’t give you my telephone number offhand, I’ve forgotten it”
– By hand – with the hands.
Example: “Jane makes earrings by hand”
– Second hand – having had a previous owner.
Example: “I love my handbag, even though it’s second hand”
– Get/Lay your hands on – to find, get, or control (someone or something).
Example: “I finally managed to lay my hands on some of that chocolate cake”
– Hand in glove – very closely.
Example: “James and Sue are working hand in glove to make the project work”
– On the one hand, on the other hand – used to introduce statements that describe two different or opposite ideas, people, etc.
Example: “On the one hand, it’s really cheap, but on the other I can’t afford it”
2. She couldn’t wait to __________ the money.
a. at first hand
b. offhand
c. get her hands on
3. All my friends were _______ to help me.
a. by hand
b. on hand
c. in hand
4. The kids got quite ________ during their trip to the museum.
a. out of hand
b. on hand
d. offhand
5. “Is that jumper new?” “No, it’s _________.”
a. first hand
b. second hand
c. by hand
ABA Journal The digital English academy
Hello Aba!
I have to resolve doubts exercise.
I would like you send us the solutions in order to have a look and learn.
Have a great day!
Belinda
Hi Belinda!
The answers are:
1. She couldn’t wait to get her hands on the money.
2. All my friends were on hand to help me.
3. The kids got quite out of hand during their trip to the museum.
4. “Is that jumper new?” “No, it’s second hand.”