is on hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'is on hand' is correct and can be used in written English.
It usually means that something is available or present, and can be used when speaking about tangible and intangible objects. For example, "See if there is anyone on hand who can help you with the paperwork."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

The ship's teacher, one of 22 staff, is on hand to guide their learning.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A tailor is on hand.

The New Yorker

Our expert is on hand to help.

The Guardian - Money

A pair of models is on hand.

The New Yorker

Fortunately, Portia Doubleday is on hand.

The New Yorker

DealBook is on hand for the conference.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

An English-speaking assistant is on-hand to help with language translation.

The New York Times - Travel

Counsellors are on hand.

The Economist

No policemen were on hand.

Independent

He was on hand, too.

The New Yorker

Staff are on hand around the clock.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is on hand" to indicate that someone or something is readily available or present to assist or be used. It suggests convenience and preparedness.

Common error

Avoid using "is on hand" to refer to scheduled events. This phrase implies readily available assistance or resources, not pre-planned occurrences. For scheduled events, use "will be held" or "will take place".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is on hand" functions as a predicative expression, indicating that someone or something is available or present. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its usage in describing available personnel or resources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is on hand" is a versatile expression used to indicate that someone or something is available, present, and ready for use. As demonstrated by Ludwig, its primary function is to assure or inform about the availability of resources or personnel. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. The phrase finds its most frequent application in neutral contexts like news and media, but is also suitable for business and formal communication. While it conveys a sense of immediate availability, it's important to avoid using it for pre-scheduled events. Alternatives like "is available" or "is present" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is available

Focuses directly on availability rather than presence.

is present

Emphasizes physical or abstract presence at a location or event.

is in attendance

Formal way of saying someone is present at an event.

is within reach

Highlights accessibility or ease of obtaining something.

is at the ready

Implies preparedness and immediate availability.

is standing by

Suggests waiting and being prepared to assist.

is accessible

Focuses on the ease of accessing something.

is ready

Implies a state of preparedness for action or use.

is obtainable

Highlights the possibility of acquiring something.

is conveniently located

Emphasizes the ease of access due to location.

FAQs

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

The phrase "is on hand" indicates availability or presence for assistance or use. For example, "A nurse "is on hand" to care for any injuries."

What's a more formal way to say "is on hand"?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives such as "is available" or "is present", depending on the context.

Is there a subtle difference between "is available" and "is on hand"?

While both suggest accessibility, "is on hand" implies a more immediate or convenient presence. "Is available" simply means accessible, while "is on hand" suggests readiness and close proximity.

Can "is on hand" refer to both people and things?

Yes, "is on hand" can refer to both. You can say "A doctor is on hand" (referring to a person) or "The necessary equipment "is on hand"" (referring to things).