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hand over
/hænd ˈoʊvər/◆phrasal verb
to give something to someone
The manager asked me to hand over the report to the client.
The manager asked me to give the report to the client.
formal
to give something to someone, especially formally or officially
The suspect was ordered to hand over the stolen goods to the police.
The suspect was ordered to give the stolen goods to the police.
Often used in formal or official contexts, such as legal or business situations.
informal
to pass something to someone
Can you hand over the salt, please?
Can you pass the salt, please?
In informal contexts, it can be used similarly to 'pass.'
Collocations
hand over the keysto give someone the keyshand over the documentsto give someone the documents
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
'Hand over' is often used in formal contexts, but it can also be used informally to mean 'pass.' Be mindful of the context to avoid sounding too formal in casual conversations.
Gold Rule
Correct Usage
Use 'hand over' when referring to the act of giving something formally or officially. In informal contexts, 'pass' or 'give' may be more appropriate.
Word Origin
From the combination of 'hand' (to give) and 'over' (to transfer).
Usage Notes
The phrasal verb 'hand over' is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is often associated with official or formal situations, such as handing over evidence in a court or transferring responsibility.
Word Breakdown
hand
to give or pass
rootover
to transfer or deliver
prepositionEnglish Dictionary