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first hand vs first-hand

Both "first hand" and "first-hand" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "First hand" is used as an adjective before a noun, while "first-hand" is used as an adverb or adjective after a linking verb. The hyphenated form is more common and preferred in formal writing.

Last updated: March 20, 2024 • 1255 views

This phrase is correct when used as an adjective before a noun.

"first hand "

This phrase is used to describe something that is directly experienced or observed by someone.

Examples:

  • I got the information first hand from the source.
  • She had first hand experience of the situation.
  • It's a really good opportunity to have first hand experience, sister.
  • Schedule interviews with people who have first hand experience with the research topic.
  • Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 313 Refrigeration box from first hand.
  • The priest experiences this first hand.
  • I saw first hand how to ruin and destroy someone.
  • Thought you deserved to hear it first hand.
  • We know first hand of his malevolence.
  • It's a subject I know about first hand.
  • I think it's better to hear bad news first hand.
  • You have first hand experience of how his healing can have disastrous results.
  • He witnessed first hand the massacre of those attending the funeral by government forces.
  • As a missionary bishop, he learned first hand the difficulties of travel into remote rural counties.
  • And you'll write from first hand experience.
  • Nissan Cabstar 35.11 aerial platform with toolboxes from first hand.
  • I have seen his work first hand.
  • Experience VMware technology first hand with our Hands-On Labs catalogue.
  • In an exclusive atmosphere you will experience first hand the delightful combination of Alpine and Mediterranean lifestyle.
  • Thanks to internships participants can experience first hand what happens during these processes .
  • Opportunity to witness first hand the hoods or choose in-store catalog.
  • Renault Midlum as flatbed tarp tautliners first hand.

Alternatives:

  • directly
  • personally
  • at first hand
  • from the source
  • from the horse's mouth

This phrase is correct when used as an adverb or adjective after a linking verb.

"first-hand "

This phrase is used to describe something that is directly experienced or observed by someone, especially in formal writing.

Examples:

  • She experienced the event first-hand.
  • He provided first-hand information about the incident.
  • Define firsthand: coming directly from actually experiencing or seeing something —usage, synonyms, more.
  • first-hand information. Synonyms and related ... first-hand experience. Synonyms and ... Explore Thesaurus. This is the British English definition of first-hand.
  • I got it first-hand from Harry that he's being promoted. Synonyms and related ... He wants to see firsthand how the policies are affecting people. Synonyms and ...
  • 1. from the original source; direct or directly: first-hand news; he got the news first- hand. 2. at first hand from the original source; directly. Collins English ...

Alternatives:

  • directly
  • personally
  • at first hand
  • from the source
  • from the horse's mouth

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