in hand

I

in hand

Meaning

• under control
• being dealt with or addressed
• in order
• managing something well
• in physical possession of something
• under consideration
• having more than needed (time – for example)
• not yet used (used about money, etc.)

Example Sentences

1. Don’t worry about a thing; I’ve got it all in hand. I did it all online.
2. The travel arrangements are all in hand, and we set off at 4.00 am tomorrow morning.
3. The duty officer had got the situation in hand and was questioning everyone about the incident.
4. The event organisers had been very quick off the mark, and they got the crisis in hand before the public was aware.
5. With a game in hand, they are the current favourites for the cup.
6. I’m sure he will pay off his debts as soon as he has the money in hand.
7. Claire has got a week in hand before the deadline.
8. The firemen had the situation in hand by the time the police arrived, and all the people were accounted for.

Origin

One of many phrases using ‘hand’. It is commonly used in the areas of having  extra of something, sport or the task/situation/problem that you are currently dealing with.

Related Idioms

• out of hand
• a bird in the hand
• a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush

Hand, Money