"in hand" vs "at hand"

Question

"in hand" vs "at hand"

Both 'in hand' and 'at hand' are correct phrases in English, but they are used in different contexts. 'In hand' is used to indicate that something is physically held or under control, while 'at hand' is used to mean something is nearby or readily available.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

Use 'in hand' when referring to something that is physically held or under control. For example, 'I have the documents in hand.'

Examples:

He had the keys in hand as he approached the door.
She kept the situation in hand by remaining calm.
The teacher had the students' attention in hand during the lesson.
The chef had the recipe book in hand while cooking.
The manager had the project in hand and was overseeing its progress.

Alternatives:

physically held
under control
in possession

Use 'at hand' when referring to something that is nearby or readily available. For example, 'I have the information at hand.'

Examples:

The tools needed for the job are at hand.
She always keeps a first aid kit at hand in case of emergencies.
The solution to the problem was at hand the whole time.
Having a dictionary at hand is useful when reading in a foreign language.
He likes to have snacks at hand while watching movies.

Alternatives:

nearby
readily available
close by

Answer 1

in hand

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that something is physically held or under control.

Answer 2

at hand

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to mean something is nearby or readily available.

"in hand" vs "at hand"

in hand

at hand

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