on hand vs in hand

Both 'on hand' and 'in hand' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'On hand' is used to indicate that something is available or accessible, while 'in hand' is used to indicate that something is physically held or possessed.

Last updated: March 15, 2024 • 1559 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that something is available or accessible.

"on hand"

Use 'on hand' when referring to something that is readily available or accessible for use or assistance.

Examples:

I always keep a first aid kit on hand in case of emergencies.
Do you have any extra copies of the report on hand?
The manager always has a solution on hand for any problem that arises.
Having a dictionary on hand can be helpful when learning a new language.
It's good to have some cash on hand in case of unexpected expenses.

Show examples from the web [+]

immediately available in hand Ms. Sharp will be on hand to answer questions later about the film. The two cosmonauts have seven hours of oxygen on hand, but ...
Jan 17, 2012 ... What's the difference between at hand, on hand and in hand? At hand seems to me as if you have something in reach. On hand is if you have ...
6 days ago ... Definition of "on hand" - American English Dictionary ... ready and available: He always kept a supply of firewood on hand for cold nights.
see definition of on hand. Font size. X. Aa. Aa. Aa. Aa. Aa. show. all, adjective, adverb ... Synonyms for on hand. adj ready for use. accessible star · usable star ...

Alternatives:

available
accessible
readily available
at hand
within reach

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

"in hand"

Use 'in hand' when referring to something that is physically held or possessed by someone.

Examples:

She walked into the meeting with a cup of coffee in hand.
He always keeps his phone in hand in case of important calls.
The player had the ball in hand when the referee blew the whistle.
I prefer to have my passport in hand when going through airport security.
She entered the room with a bouquet of flowers in hand.

Show examples from the web [+]

Nothing in hand but this whiskey bottle.
And I have exactly 3,954.30 cash in hand.
Doctors usually up before the sun, whip in hand.
Purse in hand, she closed the door.
The Sanctuary has everything in hand.
Nurse Crane has the practicalities in hand.
Please have boarding pass in hand!
Doctores usually up before the sun, whip in hand.
I sprung from my mother with sword in hand.
You're always with a glass in hand.
They have the Indians pretty well in hand.
We must catch him cheese in hand.
That's it. Exit singing, bags in hand.
It's all in hand, Miss Quinn.
Doctores usually up before the sun, whip in hand.
I would see you with a sword in hand soon.
I sprung from my mother with sword in hand.
Operative Collins has his cover documentation in hand?
We were not found knife in hand, kneeling beside body.
When could you Sin a brush in hand.

Alternatives:

held
possessed
carried
grasped
clutched

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

on hand vs in hand

"on hand"

"in hand"

Related Comparisons

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text