"out of reach" vs "out of hand"

Question

"out of reach" vs "out of hand"

The phrases 'out of reach' and 'out of hand' are not directly comparable as they have different meanings and are used in different contexts. 'Out of reach' means something is physically inaccessible, while 'out of hand' means a situation is no longer under control. Both phrases are correct in their respective contexts.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

It means something is physically inaccessible or unattainable. It is often used when referring to objects or goals that are too far away or difficult to achieve.

Examples:

The cookies were placed out of reach of the children.
His dream of becoming a pilot seemed out of reach.
The top shelf was out of reach for the short girl.
The stars were out of reach, shining high in the sky.
The treasure chest was out of reach at the bottom of the ocean.

Alternatives:

beyond one's reach
unattainable
inaccessible
too far away
difficult to achieve

It means a situation is no longer under control or has become chaotic. It is often used to describe events or circumstances that have escalated beyond manageable levels.

Examples:

The party got out of hand and the police were called.
The argument between the siblings quickly got out of hand.
The project spiraled out of hand due to mismanagement.
The protest turned out of hand and led to violence.
The situation was out of hand and needed immediate intervention.

Alternatives:

out of control
chaotic
unmanageable
escalated
spun out of control

Answer 1

out of reach

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

out of hand

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"out of reach" vs "out of hand"

out of reach

out of hand

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