Phrase guide

give someone a hand

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To help, aid, or assist.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • Could you please give me a hand carrying this mattress?

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To applaud or clap (also to give (someone) a big hand).

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • Please give all our dedicated volunteers a hand for their hard work.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

7 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • German: jemandem zur Hand gehen — to help, aid, or assist
  • Polish: podawać pomocną dłoń — to help, aid, or assist
  • Polish: podać pomocną dłoń — to help, aid, or assist
  • Spanish: echar una mano — to help, aid, or assist
  • Turkish: yardım eli uzatmak — to help, aid, or assist
  • Turkish: yardım elini uzatmak — to help, aid, or assist
  • Zazaki: desti dayen — to help, aid, or assist