GO HAND IN HAND

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'go hand in hand' refers to two or more things that are closely related or naturally complement each other, occurring together or forming a harmonious pair.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'go hand in hand' refers to two or more things that are closely related or naturally complement each other, occurring together or forming a harmonious pair.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
'Go hand in hand' cannot be separated by inserting a word between the components.
Register
Neutral
It is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
No
It is used intransitively, as it does not require a direct object.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple go hand in hand Culture and society often go hand in hand.
Past Simple went hand in hand Their efforts went hand in hand with reforms.
Present Continuous going hand in hand These developments are going hand in hand.
Present Perfect have gone hand in hand Innovation and change have gone hand in hand for years.

💡 When to Use

Discussing complementary relationships
Use it to describe two or more things that complement each other harmoniously or are often found together.
Example: "Success and hard work often go hand in hand."
Expressing mutual dependencies
Apply it when noting relationships where elements mutually rely on or enhance each other.
Example: "Innovation and creativity go hand in hand."
Describing simultaneous occurrences
Utilize it when two events or phenomena usually occur simultaneously or in conjunction.
Example: "Economic growth and environmental responsibility should go hand in hand."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect verb form
❌ Wrong: Success and diligence goes hand in hand.
✅ Correct: Success and diligence go hand in hand.
💡 Tip: Remember to use 'go' for plural subjects.
Misplacement of 'hand in hand'
❌ Wrong: They walked through the park hand closely in hand.
✅ Correct: They walked through the park hand in hand.
💡 Tip: Keep the phrase together for correctness.
Inappropriate context
❌ Wrong: Weather and breakfast go hand in hand.
✅ Correct: Culture and food often go hand in hand.
💡 Tip: Ensure the items logically complement each other.
Practice

GO HAND IN HAND - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

complement coincide

Antonyms

diverge

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"For true success, hard work and dedication must ___ hand in hand."

get
go hand in hand
move
walk

"Understanding and compassion often go hand in hand, leading to harmonious relationships and fruitful collaborations beyond mere words."

In Context

In the early 20th century, during the fight for women's suffrage in the United States, the efforts for women's rights and racial equality often went hand in hand. Leaders like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton began advocating for both causes simultaneously. The Seneca Falls Convention of 1848 marked a pivotal moment, setting the early foundations for this dual fight. As the movement grew, they realized the struggle for justice had to incorporate both gender and racial equality. The close relationship between these causes was evident when famous African American figures, like Sojourner Truth and Frederick Douglass, actively supported female suffrage. The Equal Rights Association, formed in 1866, further exemplified how these battles for freedom went hand in hand, although divided opinions sometimes emerged. Despite facing immense opposition, these movements continued to grow. In an attempt to push for a broader understanding of rights, activists argued that social justice and equality must always go hand in hand for true progress. Their persistent advocacy eventually led to the 19th Amendment in 1920, securing women the right to vote. This significant victory also underscored the importance of unity between gender and racial equality in the ongoing fight for justice.

Frequently Asked Questions about Go Hand In Hand

What is the origin of go hand in hand?

+
The phrase 'go hand in hand' likely originates from the physical act of holding hands, symbolizing a close, harmonious relationship or accompanying action.

Can go hand in hand be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'go hand in hand' is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts to describe close relationships or simultaneous occurrences.

What is the difference between go hand in hand and complement?

+
'Go hand in hand' emphasizes natural association, while 'complement' focuses on two parts enhancing each other to improve a whole.
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Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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