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Hand down: meaning, definitions and examples

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hand down

[ ˈhand daʊn ]

Phrasal verb

^{Context #1 | Phrasal verb}

informal

To pass something (especially a possession) to the next generation, typically within a family. This can include items such as jewelry, heirlooms, or property. The phrase can also be used more broadly to mean passing down traditions or characteristics.

Synonyms

bequeath, give to, pass down.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hand down	Similar to the earlier usage, this phrase signifies passing something from an older generation to a younger one. Often used interchangeably with 'pass down', it typically pertains to family traditions, heirlooms, or wisdom. These recipes have been handed down from generation to generation. He handed down the family business to his son.
pass down	Frequently used when referring to traditions, stories, customs, or valuable items being transferred from one generation to another. It implies continuity over multiple generations. The legend was passed down through countless generations. They passed down their knowledge of farming to their children.
give to	A general term for transferring possession or ownership of something to another person. It has a broad application and can be used in many casual situations. She gave her old clothes to charity. I want to give this present to you.
bequeath	This term is more formal and is often used in legal or formal contexts, specifically referring to leaving something to someone in a will. He bequeathed his entire estate to his children. In her will, she bequeathed her collection of rare books to the local library.

Examples of usage

He plans to hand down the family business to his son.
She handed down her grandmother's ring to her daughter.
The teacher handed down knowledge and wisdom to her students.

Translations

Translations of the word "hand down" in other languages:

🇵🇹 transmitir

🇮🇳 सौंपना

🇩🇪 weitergeben

🇮🇩 menyampaikan

🇺🇦 передавати

🇵🇱 przekazywać

🇯🇵 伝える (tsutaeru)

🇫🇷 transmettre

🇪🇸 transmitir

🇹🇷 aktarmak

🇰🇷 전하다 (jeonhada)

🇸🇦 ينقل

🇨🇿 předávat

🇸🇰 odovzdať

🇨🇳 传递 (chuándì)

🇸🇮 predati

🇮🇸 afhenda

🇰🇿 беру

🇬🇪 გადაცემა

🇦🇿 ötürmək

🇲🇽 transmitir

Etymology

The origin of the phrase 'hand down' dates back to the 17th century, where 'hand' referred to the act of giving or passing something from one person to another. Over time, the phrase evolved to specifically denote the action of passing possessions, knowledge, or traditions to the next generation. The concept of handing down items within a family has been a significant part of many cultures throughout history, symbolizing continuity, heritage, and connection between generations.