Keep a tissue handy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Keep a tissue handy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when advising someone to be prepared for a situation that may cause them to need a tissue, such as crying or sneezing. Example: "If you're going to watch that emotional movie, keep a tissue handy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Keep a tissue handy, and quickly wipe each tear away as soon as it hits your skin.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Keep a tissue on hand.

WikiHow

Have a tissue handy for when Clive Sullivan's widow comes on.

The Guardian - Sport

Hope you have a tissue handy.

HuffPost

Always keep facial tissue handy for wiping runny noses.

WikiHow

Keep tissue handy.

WikiHow

"I keep a shovel handy.

The Guardian

So keep a camera handy!

Science Magazine

9. Keep a bell handy.

Huffington Post

Make sure to keep a journal handy!

HuffPost

Or just keep a surfboard handy.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When attending events known for emotional content (such as weddings or memorial services), it's a good practice to "keep a tissue handy" to manage tears or sniffles discreetly.

Common error

Avoid using "keep a tissue handy" in situations where it sounds overly dramatic or sentimental. Opt for more casual phrasing if the context is lighthearted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep a tissue handy" primarily functions as an imperative, advising or suggesting that someone maintains easy access to a tissue. This is often done in anticipation of situations where a tissue might be needed, such as for crying or dealing with a runny nose. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "keep a tissue handy" is a grammatically correct and usable English expression, as validated by Ludwig. It serves as a practical suggestion to be prepared for situations that might require a tissue, such as emotional moments or physical discomfort. While relatively rare, its usage spans across contexts like Wiki and News & Media. Alternatives include phrases such as "have a tissue available" or "keep tissues nearby". When using "keep a tissue handy", consider the context to avoid sounding overly dramatic in lighthearted situations. Remember, it's always wise to be prepared, especially when emotions are involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Have a tissue available

Focuses on the availability of the tissue, rather than the act of keeping it close.

Keep tissues nearby

Emphasizes proximity to multiple tissues instead of a single one.

Have tissues ready

Highlights the preparedness aspect of having tissues.

Ensure tissues are accessible

More formal; emphasizes accessibility.

Be prepared with a tissue

Shifts the focus to the person being prepared.

Have a handkerchief ready

Substitutes "tissue" with "handkerchief", implying a more traditional cloth.

Keep a wad of tissues at hand

Uses "wad of tissues" to emphasize quantity and replaces "handy" with "at hand".

Carry tissues with you

Focuses on carrying tissues rather than just keeping them handy.

Stock up on tissues

Implies buying a lot of tissues instead of having them immediately available.

Purchase a box of tissues

Suggests buying a box of tissues, rather than the act of being prepared.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to say "keep a tissue handy"?

It’s appropriate to use "keep a tissue handy" when you anticipate situations where someone might need to wipe tears, deal with a runny nose, or handle a small mess. Consider emotional movies, allergy season, or cold weather as times when this advice is fitting.

What are some alternatives to "keep a tissue handy"?

You can use alternatives like "have a tissue available", "keep tissues nearby", or "have tissues ready" depending on the context.

Is "keep a tissue handy" formal or informal?

The phrase "keep a tissue handy" is generally considered informal and suitable for everyday conversation. In more formal settings, you might opt for something like "ensure tissues are accessible".

Is there a difference between saying "keep a tissue handy" and "have a tissue handy"?

While both phrases are similar, "keep a tissue handy" implies a more proactive approach of maintaining a tissue in close proximity, whereas "have a tissue handy" simply suggests ensuring one is available when needed.