At first hand – Definition & Meaning

“At first hand” is a phrase that is commonly used in the English language. The phrase is often used to describe something that has been experienced or witnessed directly, rather than through a second-hand account. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of the phrase “at first hand”.

Definitions

The phrase “at first hand” is used to describe something that has been experienced or witnessed directly. It can also be used to describe information that has been obtained directly from the source, rather than through a second-hand account.

Origin

The origin of the phrase “at first hand” can be traced back to the 16th century. The phrase was first used in the context of describing a manuscript that had been written by the author themselves, rather than being copied by someone else. Over time, the phrase has evolved to take on a broader meaning, encompassing any experience or information that has been obtained directly.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “at first hand” means “directly from the original source or personal experience”. Merriam-Webster defines the phrase as “from the original source or personal experience”.

Associations

The phrase “at first hand” is often associated with firsthand experience, firsthand knowledge, and firsthand information. It is also associated with authenticity and reliability, as information obtained directly from the source is considered to be more trustworthy than second-hand accounts.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of “at first hand” include directly, firsthand, personally, and face-to-face.

Antonyms

Antonyms of “at first hand” include indirectly, second-hand, and hearsay.

The same root words

The phrase “at first hand” does not contain any root words, as it is a phrase rather than a single word.

Example Sentences

1. “I saw the accident at first hand.”
2. “She obtained the information at first hand from the source.”
3. “I prefer to get my news at first hand rather than through social media.”
4. “He experienced the war at first hand and it left a lasting impression on him.”
5. “The historian researched the topic extensively, but also relied on at first hand accounts from those who were there.”