in hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to a situation where something is currently present and under one's control. For example: "We have the project report in hand, so we can start implementing the necessary changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Rollei in hand.

The New Yorker

"Take yourself in hand.

The New Yorker

This is in hand".

The New Yorker

A budget is in hand.

The New York Times

They have games in hand.

The Guardian - Sport

Commissioner Moses, rod in hand,.

The New Yorker

Rooster erupts: ROOSTER: In hand?!

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

The two have worked hand-in-hand.

The New York Times

Ties were knotted four-in-hand.

The New York Times

Sleep goes hand-in-hand with mood.

Science Magazine

Trust and openness go hand-in-hand.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in hand" to describe a task or project, ensure it clearly indicates that the task is actively being managed and not just passively existing. For example, "With the budget "in hand", we can now proceed with the project planning."

Common error

Avoid using "in hand" when you only possess preliminary information or partial control. Instead, reserve it for situations where you have substantial influence and oversight. For example, don't say "The solution is "in hand"" if you are only in the initial stages of finding it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in hand" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to indicate the state of something being possessed, controlled, or actively managed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a present condition of control or possession.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

16%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in hand" is a versatile expression used to indicate that something is possessed, controlled, or currently being managed. As Ludwig AI affirms, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted. With a neutral register, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a state of active control or possession. Alternatives like "at one's disposal" or "under control" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember, reserve its use for situations where you have substantial influence and oversight.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at one's disposal

Highlights the readiness and availability for use as needed.

in one's possession

Stresses the ownership aspect, similar to "in hand" when referring to physical objects.

under control

Emphasizes the aspect of management and command over a situation or object.

being dealt with

Indicates that a situation or problem is actively being managed.

available

Focuses on accessibility rather than physical possession or control.

within reach

Suggests that something is easily accessible or attainable.

currently being addressed

Specifically refers to matters that are presently under consideration or management.

in readiness

Emphasizes the state of being prepared and available for immediate use.

in progress

Highlights the ongoing nature of an action or task.

on the table

Implies that something is being considered or discussed.

FAQs

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

You can use "in hand" to indicate possession, control, or current management of something. For example, "With the necessary documents "in hand", we can proceed" or "The situation is now "in hand"".

What are some alternatives to "in hand"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "at one's disposal", "under control", or "available".

Is it correct to say "have in hand" instead of "in hand"?

While "have in hand" is grammatically correct, it changes the emphasis. "In hand" typically describes a state of being, whereas "have in hand" emphasizes the act of possessing or controlling something. For example, "I have the situation in hand" versus "The situation is in hand".

What's the difference between "in hand" and "on hand"?

"In hand" usually implies possession or control, while "on hand" typically means available or readily accessible. For example, "We have the funds "in hand" to complete the project" (we control the funds) versus "We have extra supplies "on hand"" (the supplies are available if needed).