1 A2 neutral
To distribute a specific item (previously mentioned) to a number of people.
"We printed the new schedule — can you hand it out to everyone in the office?"
separable
hand it out
A2 neutral separable transitive
To distribute something to multiple people, used when the object is already understood from context.
In plain English
To give something (already mentioned) to a group of people.
What does "hand it out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic informal
(Informal) To deliver criticism, punishment, or advice freely to others.
"He's great at handing it out but he can't take criticism himself."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To use your hand to pass a specific thing outward to others.
Actually means
To give something (already mentioned) to a group of people.
Usage tip
This is essentially 'hand out' with the pronoun 'it' placed in the middle. Used when the object has already been mentioned. Not a separate phrasal verb from 'hand out' — the 'it' is just the pronoun standing in for the object.
Words that pair with "hand it out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
flyer leaflet form food prize
How to conjugate "hand it out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
hand it out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
hands it out
he/she/it
Past simple
handed it out
yesterday
Past participle
handed it out
have + pp
-ing form
handing it out
continuous
Hear "hand it out" in the wild
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Other ways to say "hand it out"
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