In hand Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Control Implication Emphasizes that someone actively directs or steers a task or situation. With the festival in hand, he made sure everything ran smoothly. Pro Tip 2/3Progress Indication Suggests ongoing activity, implying progress in the task mentioned. Keep the celebrations in hand while I'm gone; I'll be back soon. Pro Tip 3/3Reassurance Cue Can be used to reassure someone that a situation is well managed. Don't worry, the negotiations are in hand and looking promising.