Definition

1. Verb (transitive):
   • To distribute or give something to multiple people, typically by physically passing items from one's hand to others.
   • To provide or dispense something, such as information, tasks, or items, to a group.

Usage

• The verb "hand out" is used when one person gives something to several other people. It is a separable phrasal verb (e.g., "hand the papers out" or "hand out the papers").
• It is commonly used in contexts involving classrooms, meetings, charities, or any situation where items are being distributed.

Examples

• Verb:
  • The volunteer will hand out meals to the homeless.
  • Please hand these worksheets out to the rest of the class.
  • The company handed out bonuses to all its employees.

Advanced Usage

• "to hand out advice": To freely give opinions or recommendations, sometimes implying it is unsolicited.
  • He's always quick to hand out advice, even when no one asks for it.
• "to hand out a sentence/punishment": Used in legal contexts to mean a judge formally gives or pronounces a sentence.
  • The judge handed out a severe sentence to the convicted criminal.

Variants and Related Words

• Handout (noun): Something given freely to a needy person or group; or materials (like papers or information) distributed to people.
  • The students read the handout before the lecture.
  • The organization provides food and handouts to those in need.

Synonyms

• Distribute: To give out or deliver to a number of people.
• Dispense: To deal out or distribute, especially in portions.
• Dole out: To distribute, especially in small amounts (can imply scarcity or careful allocation).

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Hand in: To submit or give something to a person in authority.
  • You must hand in your assignment by Friday.
• Hand over: To give something to someone else, often implying a transfer of control or responsibility.
  • The guard was forced to hand over his keys.

Related Idioms

• Hand out like candy: To distribute something very freely and in large quantities.
  • That professor hands out A grades like candy; his class is very easy.

Verb

1. give to several people
   • The teacher handed out the exams