give a hand

1. Also, give a big hand . Give an enthusiastic round of applause, as in Please give her a hand . One can also be given applause or get a big hand , as in This speaker always gets a big hand . [Early 1800s]

2. Also, lend a hand . Help a person, as in Let me give you a hand with those chairs , or Jane is always willing to lend a hand with refreshments . [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

“It is very beautiful to help each other, to give a hand,” he said.

From New York Times

“Can we give a hand to the medical team for their assistance?”

From Washington Times

According to The West Virginia Daily News, medical personnel attended to the woman, after which Roberts II said "Can we give a hand to the medical team for their assistance?"

From Salon

One question stood out to her after watching the film: “How can our congressional leaders uplift us, and not necessarily give a hand out, but a hand up?”

From New York Times

“You cannot have a system of sanctions against Russia, then give a hand to Russia’s war allies,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• approve
• cheer
• commend
• compliment
• encourage
• hail
• laud
• praise
• recommend