Lay/get your hands on somebody

usgb
phrase

To find or obtain something.

I don't know where you can lay your hands on a book like that.
Visual representation of "lay/get your hands on somebody" - To find or obtain something

Often appears as...

  • lay your hands on a book
  • lay your hands on some money

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "lay/get your hands on somebody"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Context Matters

The phrase often implies eagerness or urgency in locating or acquiring something.

Illustration for Context Matters
I need to lay my hands on some concert tickets before they sell out!
LampPro Tip 2/3

Slang Usage

Sometimes used informally to express getting control of something without permission.

Illustration for Slang Usage
He finally got his hands on his brother's video game collection.
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Not Always Literally

It doesn't always involve physically touching the item, it can mean to acquire it in any way.

Illustration for Not Always Literally
She laid her hands on a rare stamp for her collection through an online auction.
Visual representation of the word "Lay/get your hands on somebody"

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