a big hand

USAGE SUMMARY

"a big hand" is a correct phrase and is commonly used in written English.
It is often used to refer to a round of applause or an expression of appreciation or congratulations. Example: The audience gave the performer a big hand for her incredible performance.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The e-short A Big Hand for the Doctor by Eoin Colfer is published on 23 January at £1.99 (puffin.co.uk).

The Guardian - Books

"I had a big hand in Asteroids, a big hand in Tempest, and a big hand in several others.

The Guardian - Tech

The valiant losers got a big hand.

The New Yorker

The lads gave him a big hand.

The Guardian - Sport

Do say: A big hand for Frankenstein!

The Guardian

The kayak tipped as a big hand grasped the cockpit.

The New Yorker

Gilmour had a big hand in their good fortune.

The New York Times - Sports

"He had a big hand in defeating George H.W. Bush.

The New York Times

So give her a big hand for that".

The New York Times - Style

With luck, it should roll on to a big hand.

The New York Times - Arts

"Give a big hand to a warrior of the people!" Mr. Num exhorted the crowd.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a big hand" when you want to acknowledge someone's effort or achievement, either literally (as in applause) or metaphorically (as in contribution). For example, "Let's give the team a big hand for their hard work."

Common error

Avoid using "a big hand" in contexts where a literal large hand would be implied. It's typically understood as figurative language for applause or contribution, so ensure the context makes this clear.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a big hand" is as a noun phrase, often used as an idiomatic expression. Ludwig AI indicates its common usage in expressing gratitude or acknowledging contributions. Examples show it used both literally (for applause) and figuratively (for significant involvement).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Sport

15%

Arts

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a big hand" is a common and widely accepted idiom used to express applause, appreciation, or recognition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and the abundance of examples found across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. It serves to acknowledge contributions or signal applause and is more neutral, but still usable in informal contexts. While generally appropriate, one should avoid contexts where a literal interpretation might cause confusion. Alternatives such as "round of applause" or "expression of gratitude" may be suitable in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

round of applause

Replaces the metaphorical "hand" with a literal description of applause.

generous applause

Specifies that the applause was ample and heartfelt.

hearty applause

Describes the applause as robust and sincere.

expression of gratitude

Focuses on the feeling of thankfulness conveyed by the phrase.

show of appreciation

Highlights the act of demonstrating thankfulness.

warm reception

Indicates a positive and enthusiastic welcome or response.

significant contribution

Emphasizes the impact or importance of someone's involvement.

standing ovation

Signifies exceptional praise and approval, often involving the audience standing.

considerable assistance

Highlights the substantial help provided by someone.

notable impact

Focuses on the remarkable effect or influence made by someone.

FAQs

What does it mean to give someone "a big hand"?

Giving someone "a big hand" means to applaud them enthusiastically or to express appreciation for their contributions or achievements.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a big hand"?

It's appropriate to use the phrase "a big hand" when you want to acknowledge someone's effort or achievement, either literally (as in applause) or metaphorically (as in contribution). For instance, in concluding a presentation or after a performance.

What can I say instead of "a big hand" to express appreciation?

You can use alternatives like "round of applause", "expression of gratitude", or "show of appreciation" depending on the context.

How can I use "a big hand" in a sentence?

You can use "a big hand" in a sentence like this: "Let's give the volunteers "a big hand" for their dedication to the project."