something on hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something on hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to having something readily available or accessible. Example: "I always keep some cash on hand in case of emergencies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

This means three meals and two snacks, so have something on hand mid-morning – a handful of almonds should do the trick.

Independent

Nevertheless, it's good to have something on hand if you have company, and a Venetian carrot cake seems to hit the spot.

The New York Times

I'd always have something on hand to try to cover my breath, though I'm not sure if I successfully covered it up.

The Guardian

Anyway, during the day I caught a load of fish 'cause, you know, when a big storm's coming you better have something on hand that you can sell afterward.

The New York Times

I just really liked knowing there was that easy-to-watch, familiar, irreverent but still quite clever something on hand to make me hoot out loud after a few sneaky drinks on the way home.

The Guardian - Opinion

If you're very smart, very determined and a very good Internet researcher, it can probably be done; if not, the game is fun when you have something on hand to get you past the roughest parts.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

That does not mean that something on-hand is correctly portrayed but, rather, that the totality of what-is, world and earth in their counter-play, attains unconcealment in the becoming manifest of the equipmental being of the shoe-equipment" (PLT 56/GA5 43).

SEP

nothing as the opposite of something, on one hand, and nothing as a non-being, on the other), the supposed contradiction, purported to follow from the assumption, cannot be established (AK 1 398).[54] There are two important points to consider about Wolff's argument for PSR and Kant's subsequent analysis of it.

SEP

Folk wisdom advises that problem-solving is helped by thinking about something "on the one hand" and then "on the other hand".

The New York Times

Medical diagnosis always has the risk of missing something, on the one hand, versus unnecessary referral, on the other hand (i.e., patients travelling to hospital for nothing in the end).

BMC Family Practice

Cook four to ten servings at a time and put the extra food in the fridge so that you always have something healthy on hand and ready to microwave.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "something on hand" when you want to emphasize the preparedness or availability of an item for immediate or future use. For example, "It's always good to have "something on hand" for unexpected guests."

Common error

Avoid using "something on hand" when referring to items that are generally available but not immediately accessible. For instance, don't say "We keep resources 'on hand' at the central office" if accessing them requires significant lead time or complex procedures. Instead consider "available" or "accessible" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something on hand" functions primarily as a means to express the availability or accessibility of an item or resource. As confirmed by Ludwig, this idiom is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

13%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "something on hand" is a phrase used to indicate that an item or resource is readily available. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as wikis and scientific publications, this expression serves to highlight preparedness and convenience. For alternative phrasing, consider using "something available", "something accessible", or "something ready". Remember to employ this phrase when emphasizing the accessibility of an item, and avoid it when referring to things that aren't immediately accessible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

something available

Focuses on the general availability of an item.

something at the ready

Similar to 'something ready' but more emphatic, stressing immediate availability.

something accessible

Highlights the ease with which the item can be obtained or used.

something ready

Emphasizes the item's preparedness for immediate use.

something in stock

Implies that the item is part of an inventory.

something at disposal

Indicates that the item is available for one's use or control.

something on standby

Indicates that the item is available and prepared for use if required.

something within reach

Suggests that the item is physically or metaphorically close and easy to get.

something obtainable

Focuses on the possibility of getting the item if needed.

something procurable

Similar to obtainable, but often implies a more formal or deliberate process of acquisition.

FAQs

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

The phrase "something on hand" is used to indicate having something readily available or accessible. Example: "I always keep some cash "on hand" in case of emergencies."

What are some alternatives to "something on hand"?

You can use alternatives like "something available", "something in stock", or "something accessible" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "something on hand" or "something available"?

"Something on hand" emphasizes readiness and immediate accessibility. "Something available" is a more general term, simply indicating that it can be obtained or used.

Can "something on hand" refer to information as well as physical objects?

Yes, "something on hand" can refer to information, resources, or skills, not just physical objects. For example, "It's helpful for doctors to have relevant information "on hand" when treating patients."