another pair of hands

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "another pair of hands" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the need for additional help or assistance in completing a task or project. Example: "With the deadline approaching, we could really use another pair of hands to help finish the report on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

It was a job that called for Mr. Carlson to be "another pair of hands for Mr. Alexander," in the words of a co‐worker.

The New York Times

It's almost like another pair of hands.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Jacobs was more than just another pair of hands.

The New York Times

At this point you may have to enlist another pair of hands.

The Guardian

In preindustrial times, the basic economic unit was the family, and each new child meant another pair of hands.

The New Yorker

There are plenty of projects that would be delighted to welcome another pair of hands on their volunteer days.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

As he began to operate, he said he should have had another pair of skilled hands to assist him.

The New York Times - Health

Yes, there'll be a new secretary of state in Washington, but a candidate like Senator John Kerry would be another pair of safe hands.

The New York Times

I escaped a complete tear-down of the motor only through an operation that involved the use of a stethoscope, another pair of trusted hands and the sort of concentration we associate with a bomb squad.

The New York Times - Magazine

But like all things cool, the pair-of-hands forces are too often not amused.

Forbes

The implication is that Oona King would be another inexperienced pair of hands.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "another pair of hands", ensure the context clearly indicates what task or project requires additional assistance. This avoids ambiguity and clarifies the need for help.

Common error

Avoid using "another pair of hands" when the task requires specialized skills or expertise. This phrase implies general help, not necessarily professional competence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "another pair of hands" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement in a sentence. It refers to the need for or availability of additional assistance to complete a task. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it often implies a need for general help rather than specialized skills.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

23%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "another pair of hands" is a common and generally accepted way to express the need for additional assistance, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a noun phrase and is suitable for neutral to informal contexts. While grammatically sound, it's important to use it appropriately, ensuring the context implies general help rather than specialized expertise. Consider alternatives like "additional help" or "assistance is required" for more formal settings. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media sources, suggesting its widespread use in general communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

additional help

Focuses on the assistance needed, rather than the person providing it.

extra assistance

Similar to "additional help", but emphasizes the supplementary nature of the aid.

someone to lend a hand

More informal and emphasizes the act of helping.

a helping hand

Similar to "someone to lend a hand", but more concise.

more manpower

Specifically refers to the need for more people to do work, often physical labor.

help is needed

Directly states the need for assistance, without specifying the type or provider.

another person to assist

Highlights the need for an additional individual to provide help.

assistance would be appreciated

A polite way to request help, focusing on the appreciation of the aid.

we require support

A more formal way of saying help is needed.

we need reinforcement

Suggests a need for strengthening existing efforts with additional help.

FAQs

How can I use "another pair of hands" in a sentence?

You can use "another pair of hands" when you need additional assistance with a task. For example, "With the project deadline approaching, we could really use "another pair of hands" to help finish the report on time."

What does "another pair of hands" mean?

"Another pair of hands" refers to needing additional help or assistance from someone to complete a task or project more efficiently.

What can I say instead of "another pair of hands"?

Alternatives to "another pair of hands" include "additional help", "extra assistance", or "more manpower" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "another pair of hands" in a formal setting?

While "another pair of hands" is generally acceptable, in very formal settings, it might be better to use more professional alternatives like "additional support" or "assistance is required".