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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Dissimilar Words

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

Casual Crafter There’s a swing toward hands-on hobbies that are personal, giftable, and beginner-friendly—that might look high-effort without requiring a full studio setup. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 27 Aug. 2026 This dish needs a little extra hands-on time, but the end result is worth it. — Amanda Favazza, Southern Living, 26 Aug. 2026 Applied learning centers focus more on using skills to solve real-world problems, complete hands-on projects and work in more professional settings. — Samuel O’Neal 25, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 Aug. 2026 So the city must find legal ways to exert front-end pressure on spending, including pay-as-you-go oversight, and hands-on tight accounting. — Larry Wilson, Oc Register, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hands-on

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hands-on

Adjective

Katarzyna Nowakowska, Poland's deputy minister for family, labor and social policy, told the AP that the most vulnerable applicants still receive direct help from the state and any other refugees needing support should turn to social workers.

— ABC News, ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026
To enjoy it past its best-by date safely, store your tea bags in a cool, dry place away from heat, humidity, and direct sunlight, Tucker says.

— Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of direct

Adjective

Every active iPhone, iPad, or Mac sold generates continuous cash flow regardless of whether the owner upgrades their physical device that year.

— Morgan Chittum, CNBC, 25 Aug. 2026
Meta reported in July that Instagram has 2 billion daily active users — nearly a quarter of the Earth's population.

— John Ruwitch, NPR, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of active

Browse Nearby Words

handsomeness

hands-on

hands on

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

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Synonyms of hands-on

adjective

verb

Example Sentences

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