hand each other

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hand each other" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of giving something to one another, typically in a reciprocal manner. Example: "During the ceremony, the couple will hand each other their wedding rings as a symbol of their love and commitment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Because, previously you could only bring the two characters together using awkward split-screens and body doubles, while now, The Social Network's twins can walk around each other, hand each other things, even row a boat together.

The Guardian - Film

Earlier, the International Skating Union (ISU) dismissed a report in French sports newspaper L'Equipe alleging the US and Russia had a judging 'arrangement' to hand each other gold medals in Sochi.

BBC

To make it work, Reid and McCarthy should hand each other a sealed envelope with one bill each week already passed by their respective chambers that they want voted upon by the other chamber.

Huffington Post

We may all have a difference of opinion, but there shouldn't be any less of a hidden sisterhood of mothers to support one another and hand each other that proverbial glass of wine at the end of a tough day, especially in regards to what they do to support their children and give them such a wonderful life.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

They sort of go hand in hand with each other.

BBC

In fact, the two options tend to go hand in hand with each other.

Comparative Migration Studies

Follow Harry Cheadle on TwInter.

Vice

Quarks of the same colour, on the other hand, repel each other.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The match began with Van Dam and Duprée gaining the upper hand over each other.

Wikipedia

Their hands find each other in the dark (the monster has hands).

Vice

Make your hands cover each other like you are holding a ball in your hands.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hand each other" to specifically describe the act of physically passing something between two or more entities. Ensure the context clearly indicates reciprocity.

Common error

Avoid using "hand each other" when the action isn't truly reciprocal. If one person gives and the other doesn't give back, a phrase like "hand to" is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hand each other" functions as a verb phrase indicating a reciprocal action. According to Ludwig, it describes the act of giving something to one another. The examples showcase its use in scenarios where two parties are exchanging items or gestures.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hand each other" is used to describe a reciprocal action where two entities give something to one another. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, although it appears to be relatively rare in frequency. The primary context where this phrase is found is within news and media sources. When writing, ensure that the context accurately reflects the mutual exchange implied by the phrase. Alternatives such as "exchange between them" or "mutually give" can be used to express similar ideas. Ludwig's analysis indicates that while the phrase is valid, it's important to use it appropriately to convey reciprocity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pass between them

Emphasizes the act of passing an object back and forth.

mutually give

Highlights the act of giving from both sides involved.

exchange between them

Focuses on the mutual act of exchanging something, more general than the specific act of handing.

provide to each other

Emphasizes the act of providing something that is needed or helpful.

share with one another

Highlights the act of sharing resources or experiences.

reciprocate with each other

Focuses on the reciprocal nature of the action, emphasizing the mutual exchange.

give and take

Focuses on the reciprocal exchange of ideas or compromises, not necessarily physical objects.

swap between them

Highlights the act of swapping items, implying a trade.

transfer to each other

Emphasizes a more formal or official transfer of something.

present to one another

Highlights a formal or ceremonial act of giving.

FAQs

What does "hand each other" mean?

The phrase "hand each other" describes a reciprocal action where two or more people give something to each other. It emphasizes the mutual exchange.

What are some alternatives to "hand each other"?

You can use alternatives like "exchange between them", "mutually give", or "pass between them" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "hand each other"?

Yes, "hand each other" is grammatically correct when used to describe a reciprocal action of giving something to one another.

How can I use "hand each other" in a sentence?

Example: "During the ceremony, the couple will "hand each other" their wedding rings as a symbol of their love and commitment."