"Handed in" refers to submitting something, while "handed over" implies transferring responsibility or possession.
Understanding the Nuances
The key difference lies in what is being transferred:
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Handed in: This phrase typically involves submitting something to an authority figure or designated recipient. Think of handing in homework to a teacher, a report to your boss, or a library book. The focus is on the submission of an object.
- Example: I handed in my application last week. Here, the application is the object being submitted.
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Handed over: This phrase signifies the transfer of responsibility or possession. It often involves a more formal or significant transition. This could be handing over the reins of a company, control of a project, or keys to a new home. The emphasis is on the transfer of control or ownership.
- Example: The previous CEO handed over the company to his successor. Here, the focus is on the transfer of control and responsibility.
Practical Examples:
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Phrase | Object of Transfer | Focus | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handed in | Item, document, etc. | Submission | Handed in my essay. |
| Handed over | Responsibility, control | Transfer of ownership | Handed over the project to the new team lead. |
The provided reference clarifies the distinction: "Hand in: give something to someone. Hand over: give responsibility to someone or give responsibility of something to someone." This concisely captures the core difference between the two phrases.
