Differences between hand down and hand over
Hand down usually means to pass something on to someone who is younger or less experienced, often in a family or cultural context. Hand over generally means to give something to someone else, often in a more formal or official context.
Meanings and Definitions: hand down vs hand over
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Hand down
- 1Pass on to the next generation.
The jewellery has been HANDED DOWN in my family for generations.
- 2Give a formal decision.
The court HANDED DOWN its ruling yesterday.
Hand over
- 1Give.
The robbers told the clerk to HAND OVER all the money.
Usage Examples: hand down, hand over in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
hand down
Example
My grandmother handed down her favorite recipes to my mother.
Example
He hands down his old clothes to his younger brother.
hand over
Example
Please hand over the documents to the manager.
Example
She hands over the keys to the new tenant.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hand down
To leave something to someone in a will or as an inheritance.
Example
My great-grandfather bequeathed his antique watch to me, and it's now one of my most cherished possessions.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hand over
give up
To relinquish or surrender something to someone else, often used in a negative or reluctant context.
Example
He didn't want to give up his position as CEO, but he knew it was time to retire.
To give way or surrender to someone or something, often used in a figurative or abstract sense.
Example
She had to yield to her opponent's superior skills and experience in the tennis match.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Phrasal Verbs with “over”
- brim over
- take over
- think over
- check over
- boil over
Differences in hand down vs hand over: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hand down or hand over?
In daily conversation, people use hand over more often than hand down. This is because hand over is used for more routine tasks such as giving someone an object or transferring ownership of something. Hand down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about passing something down through generations or traditions. So, while both phrases are used, hand over is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hand down and hand over
Hand down and hand over are both formal phrases that can be used in different contexts. Hand over is often used in business or legal contexts, while hand down is used in more cultural or family contexts. Both phrases are suitable for formal interactions.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hand down and hand over
The tone of hand down and hand over can differ based on context. Hand down often carries a sentimental or respectful tone when related to passing down traditions or values, while hand over typically has a practical and formal tone, especially when referring to transferring ownership or control of something.
