be on hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be on hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone or something is available or present when needed. Example: "The technician will be on hand to assist with any issues during the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Ms. Gordon will be on hand.

The New York Times - Arts

The director will be on hand.

The New Yorker

Major advertisers would be on hand.

The New York Times

Both directors will be on hand.

The New Yorker

A notary will be on hand.

The Washington Post

How much needs to be on hand?

Harvard Business Review

And "Sam" will be on hand.

The New York Times - Travel

Our newly-elected state legislators will be on hand.

Cornell University

Special BAC drink specials will be on hand!

Columbia University

Skilled OA instructors will be on hand to coach you.

Princeton University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Brooker will be on-hand to edit the stories himself.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to suggest that help or assistance will be readily available, "be on hand" is suitable phrase. It provides an assurance of immediate support.

Common error

While "be on hand" is widely applicable, avoid overusing it in very informal or casual settings. Simpler alternatives like "be around" or "be there" might be more appropriate for everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be on hand" functions as a predicate in sentences, indicating the availability or presence of someone or something. This grammatical function is confirmed by Ludwig, which validates its proper use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

7%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be on hand" is a versatile and commonly used expression to indicate that someone or something will be available and ready. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic settings. While generally neutral in tone, it's advisable to use simpler alternatives in very informal situations. Remember that it effectively communicates readiness and preparedness, assuring that assistance or resources will be accessible when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be present

Focuses on the physical presence of someone or something.

be available

Emphasizes the readiness and accessibility of someone or something.

be in attendance

Highlights formal presence at an event or gathering.

be within reach

Implies accessibility and proximity.

be standing by

Suggests readiness and preparedness to assist.

be at disposal

Focuses on readiness to serve or assist someone.

be accessible

Highlights the ease of reaching someone or something when needed.

be ready to help

Emphasizes preparedness to offer assistance.

be around

Suggests general presence in a particular area.

be on call

Implies availability for immediate response or service.

FAQs

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

You can use "be on hand" to indicate someone or something will be available and ready to assist or participate. For example, "A technician will "be on hand" to help with the setup" or "Refreshments will "be on hand" at the meeting".

What are some alternatives to "be on hand"?

Alternatives include "be present", "be available", or "be in attendance", depending on the specific context and formality.

Is "be on hand" formal or informal?

"Be on hand" has a neutral to slightly formal tone and is suitable for both professional and news-related contexts. However, it may sound somewhat stilted in very casual conversations.

What does it mean when someone says "Help will be on hand"?

It means that assistance will be available if needed. The phrase assures that support or aid will "be accessible" when required.