at hand

phrase

Definition of at handnext
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as in in
at, within, or to a short distance or time They live in a second-floor apartment with several shops and restaurants at hand.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of at hand This is barely a description of what actually happens, but more of an understanding of what lies beneath the surface of the plot, the emotional core of the adventure at hand, maybe even what critics sometimes call the driving force of a novel. — Literary Hub, 24 Sep. 2026 Instant help is at hand for clubs that have made slow starts or didn't get all their business done in the transfer market. — ABC News, 21 Sep. 2026 His record company is certainly happy that Tuesday is at hand. — Brian McCollum, Freep.com, 18 Sep. 2026 The three operate with a majority-rule decision-making process and defer to the others’ strengths based on the matter at hand. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 17 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for at hand
Recent Examples of Synonyms for at hand
to hand
Phrase
  • The only way to make the bad guys sweat is to hand them a subpoena — or, at the least, to depict them unflatteringly on television.
    — Noel Murray, Vulture, 9 Oct. 2026
  • Asda piloted a service allowing customers to hand over unwanted textiles when receiving groceries, accepting items of any brand and condition.
    — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“At hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/at%20hand. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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