Differences between hand out and give out
Hand out and give out are similar in meaning, but there is a subtle difference. Hand out implies physically giving something to someone, while give out can also mean distributing or providing something, but it doesn't necessarily involve physically handing it over.
Meanings and Definitions: hand out vs give out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Hand out
- 1Distribute.
The teacher HANDED OUT the worksheet to the class.
Give out
- 1Distribute.
Somebody was GIVING leaflets OUT in front of the underground station.
- 2Stop working, through age or overuse.
I'd been having trouble with my laptop and it finally GAVE OUT at the weekend.
- 3Have no more of a supply.
The water GAVE OUT after a week in the desert.
- 4Make public.
They GAVE the names of the winners OUT last night.
- 5Emit.
The factory GIVES OUT a lot of fumes.
- 6End or finish somewhere.
The path GIVES OUT halfway around the lake.
- 7Make a sound or noise.
She GAVE OUT a moan.
- 8Read the wordings of a hymn or psalm aloud for congregational singing.
He GAVE OUT the psalm.
Usage Examples: hand out, give out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
hand out
Example
The volunteers hand out food to the homeless every weekend.
Example
She hands out the meeting agenda to all the attendees.
give out
Example
The teacher will give out the test papers at the start of the class.
Example
She gives out free samples at the mall.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hand out
offer up
To present or provide something for consideration or acceptance.
Example
He decided to offer up his extra ticket to the concert to his friend.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Give out
To give or supply something that is needed or required.
Example
The company decided to provide its employees with free health insurance benefits.
To divide or spread something among a group of people or places.
Example
The government decided to distribute food and water to the areas affected by the natural disaster.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “give”
Differences in hand out vs give out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hand out or give out?
Both hand out and give out are commonly used in daily conversation. However, hand out is more commonly used when referring to physically giving something to someone, such as a paper or a gift. On the other hand, give out is more commonly used when referring to distributing or providing something, such as information or resources.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hand out and give out
Both hand out and give out are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions such as 'distribute' or 'provide' can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hand out and give out
The tone of hand out and give out can differ based on context. Hand out often carries a helpful or generous tone when referring to physically giving something to someone, while give out can carry a more neutral or matter-of-fact tone when referring to distributing or providing something.
