Definition

Adjective 1. Easily accessible or available for immediate use: Describes something that is positioned conveniently nearby, within easy reach, so it can be used without delay or significant effort.

Usage

This adjective phrase is used to describe objects, tools, or resources that are conveniently located. It emphasizes physical proximity and immediate availability. It is typically used after a linking verb like "be," "keep," or "have."

Examples

• Adjective:
  • Keep your tools ready to hand when you are working on a project. (This instructs someone to keep their tools conveniently nearby.)
  • I always keep a notebook and pen ready to hand on my desk. (This describes the convenient placement of writing materials.)
  • The first-aid kit should be ready to hand in case of an emergency. (This states that the kit should be easily accessible.)

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Extension: While primarily physical, it can be extended to non-physical resources that are mentally or procedurally prepared for quick use.
  • A good lawyer always has the relevant case law ready to hand. (Here, it means the information is mentally organized and readily available for argument.)

Variants and Related Words

• Handy (adj): Conveniently useful or accessible. Often interchangeable with "ready to hand."
  • A handy reference guide.
• At hand (prepositional phrase): Nearby or immediately available. Very similar in meaning.
  • Help was close at hand.
• Within reach / Within arm's reach (prepositional phrase): Literally describing something that can be grabbed without moving.

Synonyms

• Accessible
• Available
• Convenient
• Close by
• On hand

Antonyms

• Out of reach
• Inaccessible
• Unavailable
• Stored away

Related Phrases

• To have something to hand: This is a common British English variant with the same meaning as "ready to hand."
  • Do you have the report to hand? (Do you have the report easily available?)
• Keep something at the ready: To keep something prepared for immediate action or use.
  • The security team kept their equipment at the ready.

Adjective

1. easy to reach
   • found a handy spot for the can opener