give a handle

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.

But his presence at the scene was enough to give a handle to his enemies.

From A History of the English Church in New Zealand by Purchas, H. T. (Henry Thomas)

So long as he does not give a handle to his enemies to be used against him, he is fairly contented to go on from year to year in a humdrum style.

From Twentieth Century Inventions A Forecast by Sutherland, George

I have suffered too much from calumny to give a handle for evil-speaking.

From Ursula by Wormeley, Katharine Prescott

Nay, it would seem like cowardice, and only give a handle to your enemies to tax you with it.

From Willy Reilly The Works of William Carleton, Volume One by Carleton, William

Over-subtlety in the leader of a party tends to perplex friends and give a handle to opponents.

From The Oxford Movement Twelve Years, 1833-1845 by Church, R. W. (Richard William)