anything on hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "anything on hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to items or resources that are readily available or accessible at the moment. Example: "If you have anything on hand that could help with the project, please bring it to the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

At such times, a grouchy person named Mrs. Codd sat in the cottage kitchen, listening to radio soap operas and eating anything on hand.

The New Yorker

Bite, scratch, kick, tear, pull, twist, stab with anything on hand.

WikiHow

If you don't have anything on hand, you can find something at a thrift store or fabric store.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

If you don't have anything on-hand, swish some water around your mouth and spit it out.

WikiHow

"Why does anybody read anything?" On one hand it makes perfect sense that Flavorpill would want to fete a book focused on a component of the company's success.

The New York Times - Magazine

After receiving bad news from the doctor, however, he's worried he hasn't got anything to hand on to his children and grandchildren, so decides to join the property-owning classes.

The Guardian

And anything else on hand, like: 3 cups leftover spaghetti with sauce 3 cups spicy vegetable stir-fry 2 cups mashed potatoes with gravy 1/2 cup leftover salad 1/2 cup chopped Smithfield ham 2 cooked beets, chopped Lawry's Seasoned Salt to taste Garlic, onion salt and pepper to taste Chopped fresh herbs Grated Parmesan cheese.

The New York Times - Magazine

In the meantime, Smith has asked the United Nations Development Programme UNDPP) to provide assistance to the local people who have been cleaning up the spill with spoons, sponges, and anything else on hand.

Science Magazine

Where we might be jaded by our overexposure to these sorts of shows, the children remind us of their simple horror, and the power of the performances -- Archie Panjabi, worth watching in anything is on hand as a medical examiner -- makes "The Fall" transcend even its own genre.

Los Angeles Times

Or try shampoo or conditioner, if you don't have anything else on hand.

WikiHow

ROMO'S HAND PROTECTED Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo practiced with some protection on his bruised throwing hand, wearing a wrap on his swollen right hand Thursday; he did not wear anything on his hand when throwing Wednesday.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing emergency situations, use "anything on hand" to indicate the immediate use of available resources.

Common error

Avoid using "anything on hand" if the items you're referring to aren't immediately accessible or require effort to obtain. Instead, use phrases like "available resources" or "obtainable materials".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "anything on hand" functions as a noun phrase adjunct, modifying a verb or noun to indicate the availability and immediate usability of items. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in describing readily accessible resources in various situations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "anything on hand" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase indicating readily accessible items or resources. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, it is relatively uncommon, appearing most frequently in news and media and wiki sources. When using this phrase, ensure that the items referred to are indeed easily accessible. Alternatives such as "whatever is available" or "any available item" can provide similar meanings. Overall, understanding the context and formality level is crucial for effective communication. Ludwig's analysis highlights the versatility and practicality of this phrase in various situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

whatever is available

Focuses on the availability of items without specifying location.

any available item

Emphasizes the presence of readily accessible items.

whatever is accessible

Highlights the ease of access to certain items.

any resource available

Specifically refers to resources that can be used.

any item at one's disposal

Implies ownership or control over available items.

whatever one has access to

Focuses on having the possibility or right to use something.

whatever is within reach

Emphasizes physical proximity and ease of obtaining items.

any item present

Highlights the current presence of items.

whatever is immediately available

Stresses the speed and ease of access.

any item in proximity

Focuses on the close physical location of items.

FAQs

How can I use "anything on hand" in a sentence?

Use "anything on hand" to refer to readily available items or resources for immediate use. For example, "Use "whatever is available" to secure the tent."

What phrases are similar to "anything on hand"?

Similar phrases include "any available item", "any resource available", or "whatever is accessible", all indicating readily accessible items.

Is it appropriate to use "anything on hand" in formal writing?

While "anything on hand" is acceptable, more formal alternatives like "available resources" or "materials at one's disposal" might be more suitable for academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "anything on hand" and "anything available"?

"Anything on hand" specifically implies that the items are readily accessible and nearby. "Anything available" is more general, referring to items that can be obtained, possibly with some effort.