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Phrasal verbs "hand on" vs "hand over"

Differences between hand on and hand over

Hand on means to pass something to someone else, while hand over means to give control or possession of something to someone else.

Meanings and Definitions: hand on vs hand over

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Hand on

  • 1Give to someone else.

    I HANDED the job ON to a colleague.

  • 2Transmit knowledge to the next generation.

    The secrets have been HANDED ON from generation to generation.

Hand over

  • 1Give.

    The robbers told the clerk to HAND OVER all the money.

Usage Examples: hand on, hand over in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

hand on

Example

She decided to hand on the responsibility to her assistant.

Example

He hands on the family business to his son.

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 on

pass on

To transfer or give something to someone else.

Example

Can you pass on this message to John when you see him?

give to

To transfer ownership or possession of something to someone else.

Example

I'm going to give this book to my sister when I finish reading it.

transfer to

To move or convey something from one place or person to another.

Example

She needs to transfer the files to her colleague before she goes on vacation.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hand over

yield to

To give up control or possession of something to someone else.

Example

The CEO decided to yield control of the company to his successor.

surrender to

To give up or relinquish control or possession of something to someone else.

Example

The thief was forced to surrender the stolen goods to the police.

relinquish to

To give up or release control or possession of something to someone else.

Example

The landlord had to relinquish the property to the new owner after the sale.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “hand”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in hand on vs hand over: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hand on or hand over?

In daily conversation, people use hand over more often than hand on. This is because hand over is used in a wider range of situations, such as giving up control of a project or giving possession of an object to someone else. Hand on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about passing something to someone else. So, while both phrases are used, hand over is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hand on and hand over

Hand on and hand over are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hand on and hand over

The tone of hand on and hand over can differ based on context. Hand on often carries a helpful or friendly tone when related to passing something to someone else, while hand over typically has a serious and formal tone, especially when referring to giving control or possession of something to someone else.

hand on & hand over: Synonyms and Antonyms

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