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.

With the construction phase in the rearview, Rudolph said the center is now focused on completing installation of the galleries’ artifacts and hands-on installations.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

"Field Marshal Asim Munir appears to be far more hands-on in matters of governance and foreign policy than his predecessors," Nawaz told AFP.

From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026

Cut a ball in half for some hands-on learning.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 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

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

From "Mockingbird" by Kathryn Erskine