Phrasal verbs "hand on" vs "sign on"

Differences between hand on and sign on

Hand on means to pass or give something to someone else, while sign on means to agree to participate in or join a group or activity.

Meanings and Definitions: hand on vs sign on

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.

Sign on

  • 1Open a claim for unemployment benefit.

    I had to SIGN ON when I lost my job.

  • 2Agree to participate.

    I've SIGNED ON to help at the village fete.

  • 3Start broadcasting.

    He SIGNS ON the same way every show.

  • 4Employ.

    We've SIGNED ON two new teachers.

Usage Examples: hand on, sign on 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.

sign on

Example

After losing her job, she had to sign on to receive unemployment benefits.

Example

He signs on for unemployment benefits after being laid off.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hand on

To give something to someone else, usually by physically transferring it.

Example

Can you pass on the salt, please?

To transfer ownership or possession of something to someone else.

Example

I decided to give my old bike to my younger brother since I don't use it anymore.

To move something from one place or person to another.

Example

I need to transfer the files from my old computer to the new one.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sign on

join up

To become a member of a group or organization.

Example

He decided to join up with the local chess club to improve his skills.

To register or sign up for a course or program.

Example

She decided to enroll in a cooking class to learn new recipes.

To agree to participate in or support a cause, activity, or project.

Example

He decided to commit to volunteering at the animal shelter every weekend.

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 sign on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hand on or sign on?

In daily conversation, people use hand on more often than sign on. This is because hand on is used for more routine tasks such as passing objects or giving instructions. Sign on is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about joining a group or agreeing to participate in an activity. So, while both phrases are used, hand on is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Hand on and sign on 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 sign on

The tone of hand on and sign on can differ based on context. Hand on often carries a helpful or instructional tone when related to passing objects or giving directions, while sign on typically has a more enthusiastic and committed tone, especially when referring to joining a group or activity.

hand on & sign on: Synonyms and Antonyms

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