A handle on Meaning in English
expression
ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈhændəɫ/ /ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn
uh HAN-dul on
æɪ/ /hˈændəl/ /ˈɒn
uh HAN-duhl on
Definition
To understand something or become able to deal with it effectively, especially something difficult or confusing.
Usage & Nuances
'Get/have a handle on' is informal and often used when gaining control or understanding of a problem, task, or topic. Common with 'get', 'find', or 'have' ('get a handle on the situation'). Avoid using literally for physical handles.
Spanish: entender - controlar - dominarPortuguese (BR): entender - controlar - lidar comPortuguese (PT): perceber - controlar - lidar comChinese (Simplified): 掌握 - 理解 - 控制Chinese (Traditional): 掌握 - 理解 - 控制Hindi: समझ पाना - काबू करनाArabic: السيطرة على - فهمBengali: নিয়ন্ত্রণ রাখা - বোঝাRussian: разобраться - овладеть ситуациейJapanese: 把握する - コツをつかむVietnamese: nắm bắt - kiểm soátKorean: 파악하다 - 이해하다Turkish: kontrolü ele almak - anlamakUrdu: سمجھ لینا - قابو پاناIndonesian: memahami - menguasai
Example Sentences
I'm trying to get a handle on my new job.
basic
She finally got a handle on her finances.
basic
It took me weeks to have a handle on the software.
basic
Once you get a handle on it, English grammar isn't so scary.
natural
I just can't seem to get a handle on why this keeps happening.
natural
Give me a week and I'll have a handle on the whole process.
natural