This expression describes giving items to several people.

The idea

Hand out is common and neutral. Say hand out maps or hand maps out, but hand them out.

Examples

  • The guide handed out maps at the entrance.
  • We handed the tickets out before lunch.
  • Please hand them out to the guests.
  • A volunteer handed out blankets after the storm.
  • The coach hands out water during breaks.
  • They will hand the prizes out tomorrow.

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Watch out

Do not put a pronoun after the particle: hand out them is incorrect.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the correct option. Please hand ___ at the door. (them out / out them)

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    them out

    them out: the pronoun comes before the particle.

  2. Choose the correct option. Yesterday we ___ badges to everyone. (handed out / hand out)

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    handed out

    handed out: yesterday calls for the past.

  3. Choose the correct option. She handed leaflets ___ the visitors. (to / from)

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    to

    to: it introduces the people receiving the leaflets.

Use it today

Describe something you distribute to a group.