take it with both hands

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take it with both hands" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to encourage someone to fully embrace an opportunity or situation, often with enthusiasm and commitment. Example: "When you get the chance to travel abroad for work, take it with both hands and make the most of the experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

But it's an opportunity and I have to take it with both hands".

The Guardian - Sport

We're going to take it with both hands and make sure it is successful and different".

The New York Times

"I like to be up front, and if I get that opportunity I'll try and take it with both hands".

The Guardian - Sport

You just have to train well and, when you get an opportunity, take it with both hands".

The Guardian - Sport

And again, opportunity not only for myself but for other English cricketers to go and play, I think they should take it with both hands.

The Guardian - Sport

"I just want to continue that form and if I do get that call-up I'll take it with both hands.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

"Palace offered me the opportunity to come and play and I took it with both hands.

The Guardian - Sport

I just saw it as a chance to get revenge and I took it with both hands.

The Economist

After "taking it with both hands" he presided over qualification for both the 2007 and 2011 World Cups before being poached by Canada.

The Guardian - Sport

She definitely took it with both hands and said: 'Nope, this is mine …' The defensive and retrieving skills of Venus were pretty darn spectacular.

The Guardian - Sport

He felt that Colin Graves offered him an olive branch, and he's taking it with both hands … obviously he's going to have to go out there and score runs.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take it with both hands", ensure the context clearly indicates an opportunity or advantage is being embraced with enthusiasm.

Common error

Avoid using "take it with both hands" in contexts where a literal, physical taking is described. This phrase is idiomatic and best suited for metaphorical opportunities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take it with both hands" functions as an idiomatic expression. It is used to express eagerness and determination when presented with an opportunity. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use in various contexts, primarily related to sports and career advancements, where individuals express their intent to fully embrace a given chance.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "take it with both hands" is a common expression used to convey the enthusiastic acceptance of an opportunity. Grammatically sound and widely understood, it signifies a commitment to maximize the potential of a given situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, showcasing its presence in news articles, sports commentaries, and personal narratives, suggesting a neutral register. While sources from News & Media and BBC are most frequent, the phrase's presence is also observed in business and general contexts. Alternatives such as ""seize the opportunity"" and "embrace the chance" offer similar meanings, emphasizing different aspects of the action. When using this phrase, ensure the context is appropriate for an idiomatic expression and conveys enthusiasm and determination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seize the opportunity

Focuses on capturing an opportunity rather than embracing it wholeheartedly.

embrace the chance

Highlights acceptance and enthusiasm for a given opportunity.

jump at the opportunity

Implies immediate and eager acceptance of an offer.

grab the opportunity

Emphasizes seizing an opportunity quickly and decisively.

make the most of it

Focuses on maximizing the benefits of a situation.

capitalize on the opportunity

Highlights turning an opportunity into an advantage.

exploit the opportunity

Suggests using the opportunity to one's benefit, which can have a slightly negative connotation depending on the context.

welcome the opportunity

Emphasizes a positive reception to a chance that arises.

make full use of it

Focuses on utilizing all available resources and possibilities.

avail oneself of the opportunity

A more formal way to express taking advantage of an opportunity.

FAQs

What does it mean to "take it with both hands"?

To "take it with both hands" means to accept an opportunity eagerly and enthusiastically, putting all your effort and commitment into it.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "take it with both hands"?

Use "take it with both hands" when you want to emphasize the importance of embracing an opportunity fully. It suggests excitement and a willingness to work hard to succeed. For example, you could "seize the opportunity".

Are there any negative connotations associated with the phrase "take it with both hands"?

No, "take it with both hands" generally has positive connotations. It conveys enthusiasm and a strong work ethic. However, make sure the context is appropriate and that it doesn't sound overly aggressive or opportunistic, like if you "exploit the opportunity".

What are some alternatives to saying "take it with both hands"?

Alternatives include phrases like ""seize the opportunity"", "embrace the chance", or "jump at the opportunity", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.