HANDS ON Synonyms: 17 Similar and Opposite Words

hands-on 1 of 2

adjective

Definition of hands-on

as in direct

actively and personally involved in something Supervisors at the company are expected to take a hands-on role in the projects of their subordinates.

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hands on

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of hand on

as in passes (down)

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of hands-on

Adjective

The program also included an eco-design session and a hands-on Sashiko denim repair workshop. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026 These are hands-on classes, with recipes usually reflecting the sailing region. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Sep. 2026 Infantino moved this week to calm critics of his hands-on executive presidency by offering to open an independent review of FIFA’s governance standards and decision-making. — ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026 Tahan said Microsoft leaders are hoping the space is operational and ready for hands-on student work by the spring. — Pera Onal, Baltimore Sun, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hands-on

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hands-on

Adjective

On many of the songs, Beck broke into a falsetto that was a direct homage to Prince.

— Josephine Reisman, Vulture, 24 Sep. 2026
CFOs and operators should recognize that redemption pressure from 401(k) vehicles is structurally buffered at the fund level and is unlikely to translate into direct liquidity demands at the PortCo level.

— Nate Heeren, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Definition of direct

Adjective

Ecuador, Peru, and Chile draw nature enthusiasts seeking soft or active adventure; and each of these destinations is also often found on the lists of must-see places for the well-traveled.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Sep. 2026
Chinese labs manufacture about 20% of the active ingredients used to make medicines the FDA considers essential.

— Patrick McHenry, STAT, 30 Sep. 2026

Definition of active

Adjective

Orbit is Flight 14’s primary focus, and only by achieving that milestone can SpaceX move on to clear the rocket’s remaining hurdles.

— Josh Dinner, Space.com, 26 Sep. 2026
The primary bedroom overlooks the High Line, with an en-suite bathroom that has a separate soaking tub and glass shower stall.

— Matthew Sedacca, Curbed, 26 Sep. 2026

Definition of primary

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handsomeness

hands-on

hands on

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Style

“Hands-on.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hands-on. Accessed 1 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of hands-on

adjective

verb

Example Sentences

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