What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
handed
Example
She handed me the book and asked me to read it. [handed: past tense]
Example
He was handed the keys to the new office building. [handed: past participle]
Example
I saw him walking down the street, hands handed behind his back. [handed: adverb]
disposed
Example
She was disposed to help me with my homework. [disposed: adjective]
Example
He had a positive disposition towards the new project. [disposition: noun]
Example
The company disposed of its old equipment to make room for new ones. [disposed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Handed is more commonly used than disposed in everyday language. Handed is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while disposed is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between handed and disposed?
Both handed and disposed can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but disposed may be more appropriate in formal writing or speech due to its more sophisticated connotation.
