Close at hand Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Physical Proximity Use it when something is within easy reach or a short distance away. Don't worry, the first-aid kit is close at hand. Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use It can also indicate something is near in a non-physical way, like a goal. With all your hard work, graduation is close at hand. Pro Tip 3/3Urgency Implies that you might need to act soon because something is near. Keep your phone close at hand during the trip for updates.