especially in the hands of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "especially in the hands of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the significance or impact of something when it is managed or controlled by a particular person or group. Example: "The new technology can be transformative, especially in the hands of skilled professionals who know how to leverage its capabilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

They're annoying, especially in the hands of "Pinstripe Man".

The Economist

Of course, assertions, especially in the hands of men and women with massive political power, can quickly become reality.

The Guardian

Because of this, the genre, especially in the hands of disenfranchised writers, has become a powerful vehicle for political commentary.

The New York Times - Arts

More often than not, however, it's used, especially in the hands of Kremlin officials and the state press, as Russia's answer to Western moralizing.

The New Yorker

Expectations like these encourage a volatile mindset, and they play directly into the tendency to see weapons where there are none, especially in the hands of black men.

The New Yorker

Those achievements were undoubtedly in large part attributable to the colossal strength of the United States, but that strength itself was largely created by the American system of government, especially in the hands of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

To improve the ease and safety of cricothyroidotomy especially in the hand of the inexperienced, new instruments have been developed.

Emergency Medicine Journal

4 A variety of different emergency cricothyroidotomy techniques have been described, but there is no consensus regarding the best technique with respect to time to successfully complete the procedure with minimal complications, especially in the hand of the inexperienced.

Emergency Medicine Journal

"It is especially dangerous in the hands of policymakers whose command of history is weak and who are pushing specific policy agendas".

The New York Times

"Naloxone is a great tool to use, and especially useful in the hands of community members closest to the victims.

Los Angeles Times

This can be highly challenging during tumor dissection and especially so, in the hands of an inexperienced neurosurgeon.

Acta Neurochirurgica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "especially in the hands of" to emphasize that the effectiveness or outcome of something depends on the skills, expertise, or control of a specific individual or group. This adds nuance and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "especially in the hands of" in overly passive constructions. Ensure that the sentence clearly identifies who is doing the action and benefiting from the skill or control. Active voice often makes the sentence more direct and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "especially in the hands of" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb, adding detail about the conditions or agency influencing the outcome. It often highlights the significance of who is in control or possesses a particular skill. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "especially in the hands of" is a grammatically correct and usable prepositional phrase that adds emphasis to the role of a specific individual or group in influencing an outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usefulness. It's most commonly found in news and media, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, with a neutral to professional register. To use it effectively, ensure you clearly identify the individual or group whose skills or control are crucial, and avoid overuse or passive constructions. By understanding its nuances and applying it thoughtfully, you can enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

particularly under the control of

Focuses more on direct control rather than skill or influence.

notably when wielded by

Emphasizes the act of wielding power or influence.

specifically when utilized by

Highlights the act of using something effectively.

chiefly when managed by

Implies a managerial or administrative role.

primarily when governed by

Suggests a formal or authoritative control.

mainly when operated by

Focuses on the operation or functioning of something.

significantly when influenced by

Highlights the impact or effect of someone's influence.

remarkably when directed by

Emphasizes the direction or guidance provided.

uniquely when shaped by

Focuses on the formative influence of someone.

noteworthy when implemented by

Highlights the implementation or execution by someone.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "especially in the hands of" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "particularly under the control of", "notably when wielded by", or "specifically when utilized by". These alternatives, similar to "especially in the hands of", maintain the emphasis on control or influence but offer a more sophisticated vocabulary.

What's the difference between "especially in the hands of" and "particularly with"?

"Especially in the hands of" emphasizes control, skill, or influence, whereas "particularly with" simply highlights a specific association or connection. For example, "This tool is effective, "especially in the hands of" a skilled technician" suggests the technician's skill is crucial. "This tool is effective, particularly with complex tasks" highlights the tool's suitability for those tasks.

When is it appropriate to use "especially in the hands of" in a sentence?

Use "especially in the hands of" when you want to emphasize that the effectiveness or outcome of something is significantly influenced by the skills, expertise, or control of a specific individual or group. It's appropriate when the 'who' is just as important as the 'what'.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using "especially in the hands of"?

Avoid using the phrase in vague or ambiguous contexts where the specific individual or group is not clearly identified. Also, be mindful of overuse; simpler phrases might suffice if the emphasis on control or influence isn't crucial to the meaning. Overusing it may dilute its impact. Lastly, make sure the sentence isn't overly passive.