The Village Idiom

hand-in-glove

The idiom "hand-in-glove" means to work closely together or have a very close and cooperative relationship with someone.

People & relationships · Filed under H

In a sentence

  • They work hand in glove to ensure the event runs smoothly.
  • The politician and the lobbyist were known to be hand in glove.
  • Her team and the marketing department work hand in glove on product launches.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "hand-in-glove" is commonly used in the English language to describe a close or intimate relationship between two or more people or entities. This phrase suggests a strong bond or affinity, as if the parties involved are working together in perfect harmony. It is often used to convey the idea of a close or tight association, where two or more entities work together seamlessly and complement each other's efforts.

Derived from the literal meaning of the words, "hand-in-glove" refers to wearing gloves that fit perfectly and snugly on the hand. This tight fit signifies a close connection or compatibility, which is transferred to the figurative meaning of the idiom. It is important to note that this idiom is primarily used in a positive connotation, implying a beneficial and harmonious relationship where the involved parties support and rely on each other. It does not typically have negative or adversarial connotations.

The idiom "hand-in-glove" is widely used in both spoken and written English, making it a versatile phrase that can be applied to various contexts. It is commonly used in business, politics, friendship, and partnerships. This versatility contributes to its frequent usage and understanding among English speakers. In fact, it is often used interchangeably with other idioms that convey similar meanings.

One such related idiom is "join hands." This phrase is used to describe two or more entities coming together to work towards a common goal or objective. When individuals or organizations join hands, they collaborate, support, and complement each other's efforts, just like entities that are "hand-in-glove." The phrase suggests a unified front and a shared commitment to achieving shared success.

The idiom "hand-in-glove" is widely used in English to describe a close and harmonious relationship between individuals or entities. It conveys the idea of a mutually supportive and beneficial connection where the involved parties work together seamlessly and complement each other's efforts. This idiom is often used in business, politics, friendship, and partnerships, and it carries a positive connotation. Similarly, related idioms such as "join hands," "have a hand in," "hat in hand," and "hold someone's hand" describe various aspects of close relationships, including collaboration, involvement, humility, and support. These idioms expand on the concept of being "hand-in-glove," allowing for a richer understanding and application of the phrase in different contexts.

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