ENGLISH
REFERENCE

have a hand in

idiom
Meaning

To contribute to, participate in, or influence.


Examples
SIMPLE

She had a hand in planning the surprise party.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager admitted that he had a hand in the decision to change the company policy.

COMPLEX

Historians now argue that the diplomat had a hand in shaping the peace treaty that ended the long conflict.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    back of one's hand

    A display of disrespect or scorn.

  2. 02

    bear a hand

    To make haste; to help quickly.

  3. 03

    big hand

    Synonym of minute hand (on a clock face).

  4. 04

    bite someone's hand off

    To enthusiastically accept an offer.

  5. 05

    bite the hand that feeds one

    To cause harm to a benefactor (especially one that one is dependent on, thus with the idea that this behaviour is self-damaging).

  6. 06

    cap in hand

    In a humble and respectful manner.

  7. 07

    cold hand

    Used in reference to a player who fails to make successful shots in a game.

  8. 08

    deal a bad hand

    To assign unfavorable circumstances in life to someone.

Last updated April 17, 2026