What are the definitions of “hand out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Distribute.
The teacher HANDED OUT the worksheet to the class.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hand out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hand out is to distribute something, such as papers, flyers, or items, to a group of people. It is often used when talking about giving things to multiple people in a group or a crowd.
What are the different verb forms of “hand out”?
| Root Verb | hand out |
| Third Person Singular Present | hands out |
| Present Participle | handing out |
| Simple Past | handed out |
| Past Participle | handed out |
Example
The volunteers hand out food to the homeless every weekend.
Example
She hands out the meeting agenda to all the attendees.
Example
He is handing out flyers for the upcoming event.
Example
Yesterday, they handed out free samples at the store.
Example
The awards were handed out at the end of the ceremony.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hand out”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“hand out” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The teacher handed out the worksheets to the students.
Example
She handed the flyers out to the people passing by.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“hand out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The teacher handed out the worksheets to the students.
Example
She handed the flyers out to the people passing by.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hand out”?
To give someone a punishment or consequence for their actions.
Example
The judge handed out a severe sentence for the crime committed.
To distribute tasks or responsibilities to others.
Example
The manager handed out the assignments to the team members.
Good things to know
Does “hand out” have an informal or formal tone?
Hand out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as in a business or academic context.
