Word
handful
Meanings
a small number or amount of people or things
the amount of something that can be held in one hand
a person or situation that is difficult to manage or control (informal)
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Definition
A handful is a small number or amount of something, or the amount you can hold in one hand.
A handful most commonly means a small number of people or things. It can also refer to the amount of something that fits in your hand. In a more informal sense, it can describe a person or situation that is difficult to control or manage.
Examples
- Only a handful of residents showed up to the planning meeting, despite weeks of publicity.
- I grabbed a handful of almonds before heading out, knowing I wouldn’t have time for lunch.
- She can be a handful on long journeys, especially when the schedule changes at the last minute.
- They had a handful of unresolved issues, but they agreed on a clear timeline to address them.
- You have a handful of options here, so choose the one that fits your priorities best.
Common mistake
Learners often use “handful” for large quantities, but it usually implies a small number or a small amount.
More at C1 level
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