Take somebody in hand

usgb
verb

To take control of someone or their problems.

Being the eldest brother, John had to take his younger siblings in hand when their parents passed away.
Visual representation of "take somebody in hand" - To take control of someone or their problems.

Often appears as...

  • take someone in hand
  • take a situation in hand

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "take somebody in hand"
LampPro Tip 1/2

Authoritative Role

Used when someone must control a situation by guiding or directing others.

Illustration for Authoritative Role
The captain had to take his team in hand to ensure they played by the rules.
LampPro Tip 2/2

Responsibility Shift

Indicates a situation where someone assumes control over something usually handled by another.

Illustration for Responsibility Shift
With the teacher ill, the substitute had to take the class in hand.
Visual representation of the word "Take somebody in hand"

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