Definition

Adverb 1. In extremely close association or cooperation: Describes a relationship where two or more parties work together in a very intimate, coordinated, and often secretive manner. It implies a deep level of mutual understanding and shared purpose, sometimes to the point of being inseparable.

Usage

The phrase "hand in glove" is used to emphasize the tight, collaborative nature of a relationship. It often carries a neutral or negative connotation, suggesting cooperation that is exclusive, covert, or conspiratorial. It functions as an adverb, typically following a verb like "work," "operate," or "act."

Examples

• The two companies worked hand in glove to dominate the market.
• The corrupt official was found to be acting hand in glove with the criminal syndicate.
• For the project to succeed, the design and engineering teams must operate hand in glove.

Advanced Usage

• "to be hand in glove with someone": This is a common construction to state the close cooperative relationship between entities.
  • The intelligence agency was suspected of being hand in glove with the rebels.

Variants and Related Words

• Hand and glove: A less common variant with identical meaning.
• In cahoots (with): (Idiom) A synonym often used informally, with a stronger implication of secretive or dishonest collaboration.

Synonyms

• In close collaboration
• In league (with)
• In partnership
• In concert (with)

Related Idioms

• Thick as thieves: An idiom describing people who are very close friends and often share secrets, similar in the sense of intimate association but focused more on friendship than on operational cooperation.
• Join forces: To unite efforts, but without the connotation of secrecy or inseparability inherent in "hand in glove."

Adverb

1. in close cooperation
   • they work hand in glove