Change hands

verb

To pass from one person to another.

The house has changed hands four times in the past ten years.
Visual representation of "change hands" - To pass from one person to another.

Often appears as...

  • property change hands
  • ownership change hands

Usage tips

Idiomatic

verb

To be sold or become the property of someone else.

The company has changed hands twice since it was established.
Visual representation of "change hands" - To be sold or become the property of someone else.

Often appears as...

  • business change hands
  • land change hands
verb

To pass from one person to another.

The house has changed hands four times in the past ten years.
Visual representation of "change hands" - To pass from one person to another.

Often appears as...

  • property change hands
  • ownership change hands

Usage tips

Idiomatic

verb

To be sold or become the property of someone else.

The company has changed hands twice since it was established.
Visual representation of "change hands" - To be sold or become the property of someone else.

Often appears as...

  • business change hands
  • land change hands
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "change hands"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

Sometimes means general transfer, not just physical items.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The secret recipe changed hands within the family.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Frequent Transactions

Used when something is bought and sold many times.

Illustration for Frequent Transactions
This antique vase must have changed hands several times.
LampPro Tip 3/3

No Physical Movement

The phrase doesn't always mean something moves physically.

Illustration for No Physical Movement
Ownership of the artwork changed hands, but it stayed in the same gallery.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

Sometimes means general transfer, not just physical items.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The secret recipe changed hands within the family.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Frequent Transactions

Used when something is bought and sold many times.

Illustration for Frequent Transactions
This antique vase must have changed hands several times.
LampPro Tip 3/3

No Physical Movement

The phrase doesn't always mean something moves physically.

Illustration for No Physical Movement
Ownership of the artwork changed hands, but it stayed in the same gallery.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

Sometimes means general transfer, not just physical items.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The secret recipe changed hands within the family.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Frequent Transactions

Used when something is bought and sold many times.

Illustration for Frequent Transactions
This antique vase must have changed hands several times.
LampPro Tip 3/3

No Physical Movement

The phrase doesn't always mean something moves physically.

Illustration for No Physical Movement
Ownership of the artwork changed hands, but it stayed in the same gallery.
Visual representation of the word "Change hands"

Never forget "Change hands"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top