at first hand

at first hand

Directly. As a teacher, I've seen at first hand how reading can change children's lives. Come on. Did you get this news at first hand or is this just some dumb rumor? I had a great time in college and know at first hand how much a wonderful professor can change your life.

See also: first, hand

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

at first hand

Directly from the origin, without intervention or intermediary. For example, I prefer to hear his criticism at first hand, rather than having it passed on by my boss . This phrase uses hand in the sense of "person" (coming directly from one person). [First half of 1700s] Also see at second hand.

See also: first, hand

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

at first hand

directly or from personal experience.

See also: first, hand

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017