we handed out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we handed out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the act of distributing items or information to a group of people. Example: "During the event, we handed out flyers to all the attendees to promote our upcoming workshop."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

We handed out food vouchers.

The New York Times

We handed out marks like parking tickets.

The New York Times - Sports

After the meeting, we handed out surveys to elicit feedback.

Harvard University

"In the beginning we handed out booklets about it," Mr. Ozbek said.

The New York Times

We handed out all ten flyers to potential volunteers who all seemed very eager to start working next week.

Yale University

On the final day of the workshop, we handed out certificates to all the youth that attended.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

"How can we hand out punishments without evidence?

Independent

Nor do we hand out even the more familiar white gloves, as they reduce the fingers' sensitivity and thereby risk damage to the materials.

The New York Times

We have started Sunday schools, and we have handed out Bibles – both gangs have done that.

Vice

Reading 'Born Again' in Jail.

Vice

"We have handed out more than $100 billion in reparations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we handed out", consider the context to ensure it aligns with the level of formality required. In more formal settings, "we distributed" might be a better choice.

Common error

Avoid repetitive use of "we handed out" in formal reports or academic papers. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "we distributed", "we provided", or "we issued" to enhance readability and maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we handed out" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of distributing or giving something to a group of people. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it's a common way to describe this activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

18%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we handed out" is a grammatically correct and very common way to describe the act of distributing items or information. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While suitable for various contexts, including news, academia, and general conversation, it's important to consider the level of formality required and, if necessary, opt for synonyms like "we distributed" or "we provided" for more formal settings. The phrase sees frequent use in news and media, highlighting its relevance in reporting events and activities. Understanding its nuances and potential alternatives can enhance clarity and maintain a professional tone in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we distributed

Replaces "handed out" with a more formal synonym, "distributed".

we gave away

Emphasizes the act of giving something freely, often without expecting anything in return.

we passed out

Similar to "handed out", but can also imply a less organized or more casual distribution.

we dispensed

Suggests a controlled or measured distribution, often of something necessary or prescribed.

we provided

Focuses on the act of supplying or making something available.

we issued

Implies an official or authorized distribution, often of documents or permits.

we allocated

Suggests a deliberate and systematic distribution, often of resources or funds.

we disseminated

Emphasizes the spreading or circulating of information widely.

we supplied

Highlights the act of furnishing or providing what is needed.

we presented

Indicates a formal or ceremonial act of giving.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "we handed out"?

You can use alternatives like "we distributed", "we gave away", or "we passed out" depending on the context.

Is "we handed out" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "we handed out" may be too informal for certain formal contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives such as "we distributed" or "we issued".

How to use "we handed out" in a sentence?

You can use "we handed out" to describe the act of distributing items or information. For example, "We handed out flyers to promote the event" or "We handed out certificates to the participants".

What is the difference between "we handed out" and "we provided"?

"We handed out" specifically refers to the act of giving something directly to people, while "we provided" is more general and can refer to making something available, not necessarily giving it directly. For example, "We handed out water bottles" versus "We provided water for the event".