"Work hand in hand" means two people, organizations, or things work together very closely, often towards a shared goal. This implies a high degree of collaboration and interdependence.
Understanding the Idiom
The phrase evokes the image of two people holding hands, symbolizing unity and close cooperation. It suggests a synergistic relationship where the combined effort produces a greater outcome than the sum of individual contributions.
Several sources define "work hand in hand" in similar terms:
- Dictionary.com describes it as two people or groups often working separately who will soon be working closely together.
- Collins Dictionary explicitly states that it means working closely together, often with a single aim.
- Merriam-Webster while primarily focusing on the literal meaning of clasped hands, implies a connection between this physical gesture and close collaboration.
Examples of "Working Hand in Hand"
- Business: Steelmakers and automakers working together to reduce production costs.
- Community Development: Lenders and community organizations collaborating to provide equitable access to finance in low-income areas (as noted by fedcommunities.org).
- Social Services: Outreach teams working collaboratively to assist the homeless (as seen in the Maricopa County Hand in Hand program).
- International Development: Organizations empowering women to overcome poverty through skill development and resource provision (as exemplified by Hand in Hand International).
The phrase highlights a collaborative spirit and mutual support in achieving common objectives. It emphasizes the value of synergy and interdependence in various contexts.
