Hands: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is general and neutral. It is appropriate for use in almost any situation where referring to the human hand.

• She washed her hands before cooking.
• He raised his hands to ask a question.

This term is used when referring to tightly closed hands, often conveying a sense of aggression, readiness to fight, or strong emotion.

• He clenched his fists in anger.
• She pounded on the door with her fists.

Used informally or colloquially to refer to hands, often in a playful or light-hearted manner. It can also refer to mittens or gloves.

• Keep your mitts off my stuff!
• He caught the ball in his mitts.

Commonly used to refer to the hands or feet of animals. When used to describe human hands, it often has a playful or sometimes derogatory connotation.

• The dog hurt its paw.
• Get your paws off the remote!

Used informally to refer to clapping by an audience, but primarily as a part of the phrase 'a big hand' or 'give a hand'.

• Let's give a big hand to the volunteers who helped organize this event!
• Please give her a hand for her outstanding performance!

Refers to the noise made by an audience when they clap their hands to show approval. It is the most general term for clapping.

• The actor's performance earned a lot of applause from the audience.
• After the speech, there was thunderous applause in the hall.

Used in specific situations to indicate prolonged applause, often standing, usually signifying exceptional approval and admiration.

• She received a standing ovation for her incredible dance performance.
• The retiring professor was given a long ovation by his colleagues and students.

Used to describe public praise and recognition, especially in a written or formal context.

• The author's new novel has received much critical acclaim.
• He was met with great acclaim when he returned from his expedition.