How do you use the word "handy" in a sentence?

Here are real-life examples of using "handy": Always keep a bucket of water handy, in case of fire. The bus stop is quite handy.

Handy Meaning

/ˈhæn.di/

Definition, CEFR level B1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.

Definition

adjEasy to use, useful.

adjNearby, within reach.

Sentence Examples

Always keep a bucket of water handy, in case of fire.

The bus stop is quite handy.

Keep a flashlight handy in case of a power outage.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms:

convenient accessible

Antonyms:

inconvenient inaccessible

CEFR Practice Quiz

He is very ____ and can fix almost any broken appliance.

CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)

A small flashlight is always ____ to have in case of a sudden power outage.

Word Origin & History

From Middle English handy, hondi (attested in personal names), alteration of earlier hendi (“handy, skillful”), from Old English *hendiġ (“skillful”) (attested in listhendiġ (“skilled in art”)), from Proto-West Germanic *handīg, *handag, *handug, from Proto-Germanic *handugaz (“handy, skillful, nimble”), from *handuz (“hand”), equivalent to hand + -y. Cognate with Saterland Frisian jäntich (“handy”), Middle Low German handich (“skillful, apt”), Middle High German handec, hendec (“manual, hand-held”), Old Norse hǫndugr (“efficient”), Gothic 𐌷𐌰𐌽𐌳𐌿𐌲𐍃 (handugs, “wise, clever”). Akin to Dutch handig (“handy”), Norwegian hendig (“handy”), Swedish händig (“handy”).

Literary Quotations & Historical Citations

"Have you a sheet of paper handy?" — 1934, Ernest Bramah, The Bravo of London:

"And finally, have potholders and a stack of old towels handy before you begin. Dye splashes and drips may occur, so protect surfaces and be prepared to clean countertops." — 2026, Katherine Augustine, “Dyeing in the Baking Aisle”, in Spin Off, volume L, number 1, page 33:

"We had a sergeant who was a bit handy with the rougher elements. He dealt with them a little bit differently to what I do." — 1974, William Purcell, British Police in a Changing Society, page 68:

"The Sloanes said he had nothing on them, that he threatened them, made up a lot of lies. Tried to attack them, got a bit handy." — 2012, Tania Carver, Choked:

"Clap, clap handies Mammie's wee, wee ain." — 1916, Blanche Fisher Wright, The Real Mother Goose Nursery Rhyme Illustration:

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