A1nounhigh_frequency_chunk

Hand

UK /["/hænd/"]/US /["/hænd/"]/

Definition

the part of the body at the end of the arm, including the fingers and thumb

In simple words: The part of your body at the end of your arm used for holding things.

Examples

  • She raised her hand to ask a question.
  • He hurt his hand while playing basketball.
  • The hand on the clock is moving quickly.
  • Can you give me a hand with this heavy box?
  • They shook hands after the meeting.

Usage notes

Commonly used in everyday conversation. May not be appropriate in formal writing when referring to assistance (use 'help' instead).

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Imagine giving someone a helping 'hand' by holding out your arm.

Collocations

  • left
  • right
  • beautiful
  • take
  • grab
  • reach for
  • shake
  • tremble
  • be outstretched
  • gesture
  • movement
  • position
  • by hand
  • by… hands
  • in your hand
  • ball your hands into fists
  • fall into the wrong hands
  • get your hands off somebody/​something
  • give somebody
  • lend (somebody)
  • need
  • have
  • strengthen
  • hand in
  • bad
  • good
  • deal (somebody)
  • get
  • have
  • bad
  • good
  • deal (somebody)
  • get
  • have

Synonyms

  • palm
  • appendage
  • digit

Antonyms

  • foot
  • leg

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'hands' when referring to both the left and right.
  • Using 'hand' instead of 'hands' in phrases like 'give a hand.'