Definitions

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.

“Why not let them get hands-on experience? Why just have them sit and watch?” said Rory Johnson, the child development instructor at the adult school.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

The Dutch system creates the opportunity for lots of hands-on experiences through work-study pathways, employer partnerships, and state-supported apprenticeships.

From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026

Prof. Feucht combines cancer research with hands-on clinical care.

From Science Daily • Jun. 2, 2026

That hands-on experience with sending and receiving money can build a kind of financial fluency.

From MarketWatch • May 29, 2026

Aristotle’s investigations were a bit more hands-on: when he wanted to know what the inside of an octopus looked like, he grabbed a scalpel and opened one up.

From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith