Word
handy
Meanings
useful or convenient; easy to use or reach when needed
skilled at making or repairing things, especially with the hands
Definition
Useful and easy to use or access, especially at the moment you need it.
Something that is handy is useful, convenient, or within easy reach. It often describes tools, objects, or information that make a task easier. It can also describe a person who is good at practical tasks and fixing things.
Examples
- I keep a spare charger in my bag because it’s handy on long trips.
- You’ll find the search filters handy when you’re comparing dozens of options.
- He’s handy with basic repairs, so his bike is rarely out of action for long.
- She kept a short checklist handy to stay focused during the rehearsal.
- They chose a hotel that’s handy for the conference venue and the metro.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use "handy" to mean "nearby" on its own; it usually implies usefulness or convenience, not just distance.
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.