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

Trout, the face of the franchise, has nonetheless been clear and direct about his desire to remain in Anaheim.

— Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2026
The money supported Parton’s My People Fund, which provided direct financial assistance to families who lost their homes.

— Janelle Ash , Larry Fink, FOXNews.com, 1 Sep. 2026

Definition of direct

Adjective

The Angels have not made the postseason since 2014, the longest active postseason drought in the majors, and have not won a playoff game since 2009, two years before Trout reached the majors.

— Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2026
Burnham, a former lawmaker who was elected to Parliament in June after almost a decade away as mayor of Greater Manchester, is set to make a statement in the House of Commons setting out his vision of a more active but less centralized state.

— ABC News, ABC News, 1 Sep. 2026

Definition of active

Browse Nearby Words

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 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of hands-on

adjective

verb

Example Sentences

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