are on hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are on hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is available or present for use or reference. Example: "The supplies you requested are on hand and ready for distribution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Counsellors are on hand.

The Economist

Staff are on hand around the clock.

Independent

Right now, 12 brands are on hand.

The New York Times

Security guards are on hand.

The New York Times

Some monolithic forms are on hand too.

The New York Times - Arts

E-butlers are on hand for questions.

The New York Times

As usual, most of the familiar icons are on hand.

The New York Times - Arts

The hosts are on hand to offer tips.

The Guardian - Travel

Painters of a more conventionally serious stamp are on hand.

The New Yorker

The director and Mr. Gazzara are on hand.

The New Yorker

Emergency vans and medical tents are on hand.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are on hand" when you want to emphasize that something or someone is readily available for immediate use or assistance. For example, "Technicians "are on hand" to fix any issues that arise."

Common error

Avoid using "are on hand" when merely stating the presence of something without implying its readiness for immediate use or assistance. Instead, use "are present" or "exist".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are on hand" functions as a descriptive phrase indicating availability or presence for a specific purpose. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes readiness and accessibility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are on hand" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates availability and readiness for immediate use or assistance. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, especially in News & Media. When writing, remember that alternatives like "are available" or "are ready" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Avoid using "are on hand" when you simply want to indicate presence without emphasizing readiness. The numerous examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its widespread usage and acceptance in standard English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are available

Directly replaces "are on hand" with a more general term for accessibility.

are present

Focuses on physical presence rather than readiness for use.

are accessible

Focuses on the ease with which something can be obtained or used.

are ready

Indicates that something is prepared and available for use.

are in attendance

Implies a formal gathering or event where individuals are present.

are in place

Suggests that something has been strategically positioned for a specific purpose.

are standing by

Suggests readiness to act or assist, often in emergency situations.

are at the ready

Emphasizes preparedness and immediate availability.

are within reach

Highlights the ease of access or attainment.

are supplied

Focuses on the provision or furnishing of something needed.

FAQs

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

Use "are on hand" to indicate that something or someone is available and ready for immediate use or assistance. For example, "Medical personnel "are available" or "Security guards "are standing by" at the event."

What's a more formal alternative to "are on hand"?

Alternatives include "are available", "are in attendance", or "are at the ready", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say 'is on hand' instead of 'are on hand'?

No, "is on hand" is used for singular subjects, while "are on hand" is used for plural subjects. For example, "A doctor is on hand" versus "Doctors are on hand."

What does "are on hand" imply about the availability of something?

It implies that something is not only present but also readily available and prepared for immediate use or assistance. Unlike something that "is present" but not necessarily ready, "are on hand" emphasizes readiness.