On hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on hand" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate that something is available or in one's possession. Example: "We have plenty of supplies on hand for the event." Alternative expressions include "available" and "in stock."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Counsellors are on hand.

The Economist

A tailor is on hand.

The New Yorker

No policemen were on hand.

Independent

He was on hand, too.

The New Yorker

Staff are on hand around the clock.

Independent

The foreign VIPs on hand gushed.

The Economist

The director will be on hand.

The New Yorker

He has $8.3m cash on hand.

The Economist

Our expert is on hand to help.

The Guardian - Money

Luxury is also on hand.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Keep breath mints on-hand.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on hand" to indicate that something is readily available or present for immediate use. For example, "Keep a first-aid kit "on hand" for emergencies."

Common error

Avoid using "on hand" passively when an active construction would be clearer and more direct. Instead of saying "Assistance is "on hand"", say "Staff are "on hand" to assist."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on hand" functions primarily as an adverb, modifying a verb to indicate availability or presence. It often describes the state of having something readily accessible, as evidenced by the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

35%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

22%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on hand" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate that something is readily available or present. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news, business, and instructional content. To ensure clear and effective communication, use "on hand" actively and avoid redundancy. Alternatives such as "available" or "in stock" can be used to provide variety while maintaining clarity. Keep these guidelines "on hand" to enhance your writing!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

available

Expresses that something is accessible or ready for use, similar to being "on hand", but more general.

in stock

Specifically refers to goods being available for sale or use, a subset of the broader meaning of "on hand".

readily available

Emphasizes the ease of access or immediate availability, adding a sense of convenience.

at the ready

Suggests preparedness and immediate usability, often implying a state of alert or anticipation.

within reach

Indicates physical or metaphorical accessibility, highlighting proximity and ease of attainment.

close by

Refers to physical nearness, suggesting that something is easily accessible due to its location.

at one's disposal

Implies that something is available for someone to use as they wish, highlighting control and access.

at your fingertips

Suggests ease of access and immediate usability, often in a digital or abstract sense.

on call

Refers to someone being available to provide a service or assistance when needed, implying a duty or obligation.

standing by

Indicates a state of readiness and availability, often implying a waiting period before action is required.

FAQs

What does "on hand" mean?

The phrase "on hand" means available, ready, or in stock. It indicates that something is readily accessible or present for immediate use.

How to use "on hand" in a sentence?

You can use "on hand" to describe resources, personnel, or supplies that are available. For example, "We have plenty of experienced staff "on hand" to assist with the project."

What can I say instead of "on hand"?

You can use alternatives like "available", "in stock", or "at the ready" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "available on hand"?

While both words relate to availability, using them together is redundant. Stick to either "available" or ""on hand"" for clarity. For example, say "We have resources "on hand"" instead of "We have resources available "on hand"".