keep it on hand

USAGE SUMMARY

This part of the sentence is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to remind someone to have something with them or to keep something for future use. For example: "Make sure to keep your passport on hand when you travel abroad."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Get a hold of one, read it, and keep it on hand.

WikiHow

Given the whole point of mulled wine is to put you in a seasonally appropriately merry mood, it's silly to burn off all the alcohol by simmering it for hours, so make this spiced syrup instead and keep it on hand, ready to stir into warm wine, cider, apple juice or even ale, as takes your fancy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We don't just keep it on hand," SOCOM's Bockholt explained in a telephone interview once the article had been filed.

Huffington Post

Keep it on hand if you color or straighten your strands often (for fine hair, leave the mask on for 2 to 3 minutes; for thicker types, let it sit for 10 minutes).

Huffington Post

Have everyone sign a copy and keep it on hand.

WikiHow

Keep it on hand for oil based stains.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

"Rules of Engagement" seemed to always be on the bubble, but CBS kept it on hand to plug holes in its schedule when need be.

Huffington Post

There is also something discomfiting about seeing the well-worn card file of books banned by the Nazis in France — cards that must have often been consulted by the library that kept it on hand, beginning in 1940.

The New York Times - Arts

Though Kathy received both doses of naloxone at the hospital, she says she would feel safe if naloxone were administered in her home, which is why she keeps it on hand for emergencies.

Huffington Post

Keep it up, sir!" (On the other hand, @NewarkAnthem called him the "fakest mayor in America").

The New York Times

You may still need a protractor from time to time (especially in a mechanical drawing/drafting or math class), and it's good to keep one on hand.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advising someone to "keep it on hand", specify the context or situation where it will be needed to enhance clarity. For example, "Keep a first-aid kit on hand for emergencies."

Common error

Avoid using "keep it on hand" in every situation. Sometimes, more specific verbs like 'store', 'retain', or 'stock' might be more appropriate depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep it on hand" primarily functions as a verb phrase that advises or suggests maintaining possession and accessibility of something for future use. Ludwig AI examples show its use in various contexts, from practical advice to emergency preparedness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

40%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keep it on hand" is a common and generally correct expression used to advise someone to have something readily available. Ludwig AI confirms this, highlighting its usage in various contexts, particularly within Wiki and News & Media sources. While the phrase is versatile, providing specific context ensures clearer communication. Related alternatives include "have it available" and "have it ready", offering nuanced ways to express preparedness. When writing, consider the audience and situation to determine if a more formal or specific alternative might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have it available

Focuses on the availability of something, rather than the act of keeping it.

have it ready

Emphasizes the preparedness aspect, highlighting that something is in a state of readiness.

have it on standby

Suggests that something is ready and waiting to be used if required.

store it nearby

Suggests keeping something within close physical proximity for easy access.

keep it accessible

Focuses on the ease of reaching or obtaining something when needed.

retain possession of it

A more formal way of saying "keep it", focusing on ownership and retention.

maintain a supply of it

Highlights the act of maintaining a quantity of something for ongoing needs.

hold onto it

Implies keeping something safe and secure, often with a sense of value or importance.

preserve it for later

Highlights the act of saving something for future use or consumption.

have it in stock

Specifically refers to having something available for sale or distribution.

FAQs

What does "keep it on hand" mean?

The phrase "keep it on hand" means to have something readily available or easily accessible for immediate use when needed. It implies preparedness and convenience.

What can I say instead of "keep it on hand"?

You can use alternatives like "have it available", "have it ready", or "keep it accessible" depending on the context.

Is "keep it on hand" formal or informal?

"Keep it on hand" is generally considered to be neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives might be preferable in highly professional settings.

How to use "keep it on hand" in a sentence?

You can use "keep it on hand" in a sentence like this: "It's a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher on hand in case of emergencies", or "Make sure to keep your passport on hand when traveling internationally".