a sure hand

USAGE SUMMARY

"a sure hand" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is reliable and dependable. For example: "John is an excellent accountant who can be counted on to handle any task with a sure hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Food

Arts

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

They're realised with a sure hand.

The Guardian - Books

Reiner does a few things with a sure hand.

The New Yorker

McCartney has a sure hand, but an uncertain eye.

Independent

Mr. Biondo has a sure hand with seafood.

The New York Times

Mr. Santos has a sure hand with meat.

The New York Times - Food

Director Stephen Frears guides this arrangement with a sure hand.

The Guardian - Film

All three show a sure hand in the cellar.

The New York Times

A sure hand, a keen eye, a witty tongue, a deeply loving heart.

The New York Times

What was most striking about Mr. Harbison's works was the sense of a sure hand.

The New York Times - Arts

They looked as if they had been thickly broadcast by someone with a sure hand.

The New York Times

She has such a sure hand; always in control, never a hint of hesitation.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sure hand" to describe someone's confident and skilled approach in situations requiring precision and expertise. For example, "The chef handled the delicate sauce with a sure hand."

Common error

Avoid using "a sure hand" when describing tasks that require creativity or innovation rather than precise execution. It's more appropriate for situations needing reliability and consistency, not groundbreaking approaches.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sure hand" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun, often implying competence and skill in performing a task. It describes the manner in which someone handles a situation, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Arts

14%

Food

10%

Less common in

Books

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sure hand" is a phrase used to describe skill, competence, and confidence in handling a task or situation. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It is especially prevalent in news and media, arts, and food-related contexts. When using the phrase, it is important to consider the context and ensure it aligns with situations that require precision and expertise. Remember, alternatives like "expert touch" or "skilled approach" can provide nuanced ways to express similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expert touch

Emphasizes the skill and finesse involved.

skilled approach

Highlights the competence and method used.

deft handling

Focuses on the adroit and skillful management of something.

confident grip

Suggests a firm and assured control.

masterful execution

Highlights the high level of skill and effectiveness in carrying out a task.

capable management

Focuses on the ability to effectively oversee and direct something.

steady influence

Emphasizes a consistent and reliable guiding force.

seasoned professional

Highlights experience and expertise.

experienced guidance

Highlights the value of having someone with practical know-how in charge.

reliable control

Focuses on dependability and mastery.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sure hand" to describe someone who handles a situation with skill, confidence, and expertise. For example, "The surgeon approached the complex procedure with "a sure hand"".

What is an alternative to "a sure hand"?

Alternatives to "a sure hand" include phrases like "expert touch", "skilled approach", or "deft handling", which all convey a sense of skill and competence.

Is it correct to say "handle something with a sure hand"?

Yes, it is correct. The phrase "handle something with "a sure hand"" means to manage or deal with something in a confident and skillful manner.

What does it mean when someone is described as having "a sure hand"?

When someone is described as having ""a sure hand"", it means they are skilled, reliable, and confident in their abilities, especially in situations requiring precision or expertise.