remain on hand

USAGE SUMMARY

'remain on hand' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It generally means to stay available for something. Example: Please make sure to remain on hand in case we need any help when setting up the event.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Accordingly, the Shaman will remain on hand to perform additional marriages as necessary.

The New Yorker

When you encounter a particular strain, your body eventually produces antibodies to it, which remain on hand to quash that virus the next time you're exposed.

The New York Times

But accountability instils confidence and helps with personal development, as long as leaders continue to remain on hand to give guidance and support.

The Guardian

It also appears that the district court having awarded the final injunction prayed, appellee has proceeded with the marketing of his 1940 crop and has disposed of all except twelve tons, which remain on hand.

Cornell University

Daniel Pollack, the court-appointed mediator, said that he would remain on hand to help reach a deal.If an accord is made and Argentina is quickly pulled out of default, the effects may be muted.

The Economist

A week after Trump signed the executive order, about a dozen lawyers remain on hand at Dulles from early morning to late night, many working in five-hour shifts.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Nestlé USA has recalled more than 300,000 cases of the product since, even after cooking, the E. coli could remain on hands or survive in softer, undercooked cookies.

The New York Times

Because she can count those who remain on one hand.

The New York Times

The side streets and park emptied but a large crowd remained on hand on 14th Street.

The New York Times

It remained on hand only because the state required a backup water source for emergencies.

The Guardian

Her Carnegie Hall program was drawn largely from "The Salieri Album" (Decca), and she remained on hand after the concert to autograph copies.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "remain on hand" when you want to emphasize that someone or something is staying available and ready to assist or intervene if needed. For example, "The support team will "remain on hand" to address any technical issues during the conference."

Common error

Avoid using "remain on hand" when simply indicating presence without the expectation of immediate assistance or intervention. A general statement of presence can be better expressed with phrases like "be present" or "be available".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "remain on hand" functions as a verbal phrase, typically used as part of a larger clause to indicate a state of readiness or availability. It describes the act of staying present and prepared for potential action or assistance, as supported by examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "remain on hand" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that indicates a state of readiness or availability. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides examples across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. While not extremely common, it is widely understood and appropriate for professional and neutral communication. The phrase effectively conveys assurance that assistance or resources are readily accessible. Alternatives like "be available" or "stand by" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stand by

This suggests a state of readiness to act or assist, often used in emergency or military contexts.

be on standby

Similar to "stand by", emphasizing a state of alert and readiness.

be available

This alternative is less specific, focusing on general availability rather than a state of readiness at a particular location.

be at the ready

This phrase emphasizes preparedness and immediate availability for action.

stay present

This alternative highlights the physical presence, lacking the implication of readiness or assistance.

be in place

Implies being stationed or positioned in a specific location, ready for use or action.

keep in attendance

This option implies a formal requirement to be present, often in an official capacity.

be within reach

This alternative highlights accessibility and nearness, implying assistance is easily obtained.

maintain presence

Focuses on the act of ensuring someone or something is present, rather than the reason for it.

keep on call

This suggests availability via communication, rather than physical presence.

FAQs

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

You can use "remain on hand" to indicate that someone or something is available and ready to assist or intervene if needed. For example, "The security personnel will "remain on hand" during the event to ensure safety."

What is a good alternative to "remain on hand"?

Alternatives to "remain on hand" include "be available", "stand by", or "be at the ready", depending on the specific context.

Is it more formal to use "remain on hand" or "be available"?

"Remain on hand" often carries a slightly more formal or official tone, implying a specific duty or readiness, while "be available" is more general.

When should I use "remain on hand" versus "keep on hand"?

"Remain on hand" implies staying in a state of readiness, while "keep on hand" suggests maintaining a supply or resource for future use.