Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Near in time; about to happen: Used to describe an event or situation that is imminent or will occur very soon.
   • Near in space; within reach: Used to describe something that is physically nearby or easily accessible.

Usage Examples

• Near in time:
  • The deadline for the project is close at hand.
  • With the storm close at hand, we decided to cancel the picnic.
• Near in space:
  • Keep a first-aid kit close at hand in case of emergencies.
  • He always keeps his phone close at hand.

Advanced Usage

• "to have something close at hand": To have something readily available or within easy reach.
  • A good writer always has a dictionary close at hand.
• "to be close at hand": To be imminent or nearby.
  • Help was close at hand when the accident occurred.

Variants and Related Words

• At hand (adjective phrase): Similar in meaning, can indicate either temporal nearness ("The solution is at hand") or spatial nearness ("The book is at hand").
• Imminent (adjective): Likely to happen very soon (primarily temporal).
• Impending (adjective): About to happen, often used for something seen as threatening or significant (primarily temporal).

Synonyms

• Approaching (for time): Coming nearer in time.
• Nearing (for time): Getting closer in time.
• Nearby (for space): Not far away.
• Accessible (for space): Able to be reached or obtained.

Related Phrases

• Within reach: Physically accessible.
  • The remote control is within reach on the coffee table.
• On the horizon: Expected to happen soon (temporal).
  • Major changes in the policy are on the horizon.

Related Idioms

• Within arm's reach: Very close, easily reachable.
  • She keeps her glasses within arm's reach when she sleeps.
• Just around the corner: Very near in the future.
  • The holidays are just around the corner.

Adjective

1. close in time; about to occur
   • retribution is at hand
   • some people believe the day of judgment is close at hand
   • in imminent danger
   • his impending retirement
2. close in space; within reach
   • the town is close at hand