very capable hands

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very capable hands" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to emphasize someone's skill or expertise in doing something. For example, "He was in very capable hands when he decided to get surgery from Dr. Miller."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

I know I leave the business in very capable hands".

The Guardian

"The future of Johnson & Johnson is in very capable hands".

The New York Times

Eligius, remains from week to week in the very capable hands of three shrewd veteran actors.

The New York Times - Arts

I will deliver you into his very capable hands in just a minute.

The Guardian - Sport

All of these things are now in the very capable hands of Burke's public services librarian, Elizabeth Call.

Columbia University

Then the Yankees put the ball into the very capable hands of — who else? — No. 42, Rivera.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

"If my leaving the sport is leaving it in Marion's hands," Johnson said, "I'm not saying that, you said that, but if that is the case then I would say this is being left in very good and capable hands.

The New York Times - Sports

"Craig is in very safe and capable hands at this time," said director of cricket Dave Nosworthy. .

BBC

This not-so-modest coupe is in our very capable and awaiting hands for the next week.

TechCrunch

Ghosts, in experienced hands, are very capable of getting you.

WikiHow

"Some very capable people have put their hand up, and I'm joining them," Chester said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, consider adding context about why the hands are capable, e.g., "The project is now in the very capable hands of our lead engineer, who has over 15 years of experience."

Common error

Avoid using "very capable hands" when the individuals are only partially qualified or lack the necessary resources to complete the task effectively. Ensure the individuals truly possess the skills and support needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very capable hands" functions as a modifier, specifically an adjectival phrase, used to describe and emphasize the skill and expertise of the individuals responsible for a task or project. As Ludwig AI confirms, it highlights confidence in their abilities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "very capable hands" is a common expression used to convey confidence and assurance in the abilities of those entrusted with a task or responsibility. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usability in written English. This phrase, functioning as an adjectival modifier, assures the audience that skilled and expert individuals are managing the situation. It's considered grammatically correct and finds frequent use in news, media, and professional settings. The phrase emphasizes reliability and expertise. When employing this phrase, ensure that the individuals truly possess the required skills to meet expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expert team

Highlights the expertise of a group, implying competence and experience.

reliable management

Stresses the dependability and trustworthiness of the management team.

seasoned professionals

Implies that the individuals involved are experienced and knowledgeable in their field.

highly skilled individuals

Focuses on the skill level of the people involved, rather than their ability to handle something.

qualified personnel

Highlights that the people involved have the required qualifications and expertise.

proficient staff

Focuses on the proficiency and skill set of the staff members.

competent leadership

Emphasizes the ability to lead effectively and skillfully.

able administrators

Focuses on the administrative skills and capabilities of the individuals.

efficient operators

Emphasizes the efficiency and effectiveness of the individuals in performing their tasks.

trustworthy guardians

Highlights the reliability and protective nature of the individuals involved.

FAQs

How can I use "very capable hands" in a sentence?

You can use "very capable hands" to express confidence in someone's ability to manage a situation or task. For example, "I'm leaving the project in the "very capable hands" of my assistant while I'm on vacation".

What are some alternatives to saying "very capable hands"?

Alternatives include "expert team", "skilled professionals", or "competent staff". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "very capable hands" in formal writing?

Yes, "very capable hands" is suitable for formal writing. It clearly and professionally communicates confidence in someone's abilities, making it useful in business reports or official communications.

What does it mean when someone says something is in "very capable hands"?

It means that the responsibility for something has been given to someone who is trusted and expected to handle it well because they have the necessary skills, experience, and resources.