Meaning
To help or assist someone, usually with a physical task, a heavy load, or a temporary favor.
While it physically refers to using one’s hands to carry or fix something, it broadly extends to offering any form of practical support or assistance when someone needs help.
Origin
The phrase dates back to at least the 16th century in English. It stems from the literal act of reaching out a physical hand to help someone accomplish a manual task, such as lifting a heavy object, pulling someone up, or holding a tool. Over time, the metaphor expanded into everyday language to mean offering assistance in general. A related variant, give someone a big hand, evolved separately in the 19th century to mean applauding or clapping for someone using your hands.
Examples
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Could you give me a hand with these heavy boxes?
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I need to move this sofa to the second floor, so I asked my neighbor to give me a hand.
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She was struggling to assemble the furniture until her brother offered to give her a hand.
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A: Do you need any help setting up the equipment?
B: If you could give me a hand with the cables, that would be great.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'Give a hand' mean?
To help or assist someone, usually with a physical task, a heavy load, or a temporary favor.
While it physically refers to using one’s hands to carry or fix something, it broadly extends to offering any form of practical support or assistance when someone needs help.