taking it with both hands

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking it with both hands" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the idea of fully embracing or accepting an opportunity or situation, often with enthusiasm or determination. Example: "When the promotion was offered, she decided to take it with both hands and make the most of the new role."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

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

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

It was an exciting opportunity and I was planning on taking it with both hands, but I was slightly apprehensive.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

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

The Guardian - Sport

"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

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

The New York Times

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 like to be up front, and if I get that opportunity I'll try and 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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "taking it with both hands" to illustrate a proactive and enthusiastic approach to new opportunities, particularly when emphasizing a complete and unwavering commitment.

Common error

Avoid using "taking it with both hands" in highly formal or academic writing; opt for more neutral phrases like "seizing the opportunity" or "capitalizing on the situation" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking it with both hands" functions as an idiomatic expression. It's typically used as a verb phrase to describe the act of eagerly embracing an opportunity or challenge. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "taking it with both hands" is an idiom used to express an enthusiastic and committed acceptance of an opportunity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English, although its frequency is relatively rare. Predominantly found in News & Media, this expression conveys a sense of eagerness and determination. Alternatives like "seize the opportunity" or "embrace the chance" may be more appropriate for formal contexts. It's essential to recognize the informal nature of this idiom and use it accordingly to maintain the desired tone in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seize the opportunity

Focuses on actively grasping the chance, emphasizing proactiveness.

embrace the chance

Highlights acceptance and enthusiasm in adopting a new prospect.

grab the opportunity wholeheartedly

Emphasizes the enthusiastic and complete nature of accepting the chance.

jump at the chance

Suggests immediate and eager acceptance of an opportunity.

capitalize on the opportunity

Highlights leveraging the opportunity for maximum gain.

make the most of the opportunity

Focuses on fully utilizing the chance to achieve the best possible outcome.

exploit the opportunity

Implies using the opportunity strategically and sometimes aggressively.

welcome the opportunity with open arms

Stresses a warm and receptive acceptance of the chance.

take full advantage of the opportunity

Emphasizes utilizing all aspects of the chance to its fullest potential.

make hay while the sun shines

An idiomatic expression suggesting taking advantage of a favorable situation.

FAQs

How can I use "taking it with both hands" in a sentence?

You can use "taking it with both hands" to describe someone who is enthusiastically embracing an opportunity. For example, "When the promotion was offered, she decided to "take it with both hands" and make the most of the new role."

What's a more formal alternative to "taking it with both hands"?

For more formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "seize the opportunity" or "capitalize on the opportunity".

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

To "take something with both hands" means to accept an opportunity eagerly and wholeheartedly, putting forth your best effort to succeed.

Is "taking it with both hands" an idiom?

Yes, "taking it with both hands" is an idiom that means to accept something enthusiastically and make the most of it.