hands-on

[handz-on, -awn] / ˈhændzˈɒn, -ˈɔn /

ADJECTIVE

active participation; experiential

Synonyms

STRONGEST

firsthand

STRONG

manual primary

WEAK

direct experienced explicit immediate individual intimate

Antonyms

STRONGEST

automatic computerized impersonal indirect

WEAK

second-hand

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

De Meo brought a track record as a more hands-on leader.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

"We try to mix education in with hands-on activities because it is something you can get kids involved with," said Helen.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

“This structure ensures parents stay in the driver’s seat during the learning years, while giving kids real, hands-on experience that prepares them for financial independence,” Jennifer Seitz, Greenlight’s director of education, told MarketWatch.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026

Proton’s customer support prioritizes self-service, which may not satisfy users who want immediate, hands-on assistance from actual humans.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

You’ll still need to do some hands-on learning.

From "Mockingbird" by Kathryn Erskine