on hand

USAGE SUMMARY

"on hand" is correct and can be used in written English.
This expression can be used to refer to something that is available or present and ready to be used or taken. For example: "We always keep extra materials on hand just in case we need them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Counsellors are on hand.

The Economist

A tailor is on hand.

The New Yorker

No policemen were on hand.

Independent

He was on hand, too.

The New Yorker

Staff are on hand around the clock.

Independent

The foreign VIPs on hand gushed.

The Economist

The director will be on hand.

The New Yorker

He has $8.3m cash on hand.

The Economist

Our expert is on hand to help.

The Guardian - Money

Luxury is also on hand.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Keep breath mints on-hand.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When indicating that resources or personnel are available, use "on hand" to clearly convey readiness and accessibility. For example, "We have technical support on hand to assist with any issues."

Common error

Avoid using "available on hand" as it is redundant. "On hand" already implies availability, so choose the simpler and more direct phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on hand" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating that something or someone is available or readily accessible. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

36%

News & Media

31%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

28%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on hand" is a versatile and commonly used adverbial phrase that signifies availability and readiness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and our analysis shows it is frequently employed across various contexts, including news, wiki articles, and business communications. While generally neutral in register, it's important to avoid redundancy by not pairing it with "available". Alternatives like "readily available" or "at the ready" can provide nuanced variations. In summary, "on hand" is a reliable choice for indicating that resources, personnel, or items are present and prepared for use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

readily available

Emphasizes immediate accessibility and usability.

easily accessible

Focuses on the ease with which something can be obtained or used.

immediately available

Highlights the lack of delay in accessing or using something.

at the ready

Implies a state of preparedness and anticipation of being needed.

standing by

Implies readiness and availability to assist or be used.

within reach

Suggests physical proximity and ease of obtaining something.

at one's disposal

Indicates that something is available for someone to use as they wish.

in stock

Specifically refers to items available for purchase or use from a supply.

available

A broad term meaning capable of being used or obtained.

present

A more general term indicating something is in a particular place.

FAQs

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

Use "on hand" to indicate that something is available or present for use. For example, "Keep a first-aid kit "on hand" for emergencies".

What does "on hand" mean?

The phrase "on hand" means available, present, and ready for use when needed.

What are some alternatives to saying "on hand"?

Alternatives to "on hand" include "readily available", "easily accessible", and "at the ready". Choose the alternative that best fits the specific context.

Is it correct to say "available on hand"?

While understandable, "available on hand" is somewhat redundant. It's more concise and grammatically sound to simply say ""on hand"".