Have on hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have on hand" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to having something available or in your possession. Example: "I always have extra batteries on hand." Alternative expressions include "have available" and "keep in stock."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Have on hand a dish or two that you really enjoy and be done with it.

The New York Times

Have on hand and set aside a large cookie sheet, long pan or casserole dish.

WikiHow

Have on hand, ready for use, all the materials that you will need.

WikiHow

You can buy a hollow metal sphere or make one from materials you have on hand.

WikiHow

If I had one, I could reduce the amount of cash I have on hand.

The New York Times

It's easy to make one at home with materials you probably have on hand.

WikiHow

You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand.

The New York Times

What about the data that we have on hand already?

The New York Times

"It's cash I have on hand," Mr. Trump said.

The New York Times

Herb butters are excellent, instant meal enhancers, worthwhile to have on hand.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Look around your house and see what materials you already have on-hand.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or providing advice, use "have on hand" to clearly indicate necessary materials or resources for a task. For instance: "When baking this cake, be sure to "have on hand" all the required ingredients before you begin."

Common error

Avoid using "have on hand" when you mean simply 'to possess' something. "Have on hand" suggests availability for immediate use, so ensure the context reflects this meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have on hand" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, indicating the state of possessing something readily available for use. Ludwig AI supports this understanding with numerous examples demonstrating its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

45%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Reference

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have on hand" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate that something is available and ready for use. Ludwig AI confirms this with a high number of examples drawn from diverse sources, including Wiki and News & Media outlets. While its register leans towards neutral and informal, it's suitable for a wide range of contexts. Remember to use it when emphasizing preparedness and availability, and consider alternatives like "have available" for more formal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Have available

A more formal alternative, highlighting readiness and accessibility.

Keep available

Emphasizes maintaining accessibility but may not imply immediate possession.

Have ready

Focuses on the state of preparedness, implying something is organized for use.

Have within reach

Implies the item is close by and easily obtainable.

Keep in stock

Focuses on maintaining a supply, often in a commercial context.

Keep accessible

Emphasizes ease of retrieval and use.

Maintain a supply

Highlights the act of ensuring there's enough of something.

Keep at the ready

Highlights a state of immediate preparedness, often for emergencies.

Keep in supply

Similar to "maintain a supply", suggesting an ongoing effort to keep something available.

Have in reserve

Suggests keeping something back for future use.

FAQs

How can I use "Have on hand" in a sentence?

"Have on hand" means to have something available and ready for use. For example, "It's a good idea to "have on hand" a first-aid kit in your car."

What's a more formal way to say "Have on hand"?

A more formal alternative to "have on hand" is "have available", which also suggests something is accessible for use.

What is the difference between "Have on hand" and "keep in stock"?

"Have on hand" usually refers to a smaller quantity of something readily available for immediate use, while "keep in stock" typically refers to a larger supply maintained for future use or sale.

Is it correct to say "Have on hand" or "Have in hand"?

The correct phrase is "have on hand". "Have in hand" means to be currently dealing with something or to possess control over something.