at second hand


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at second hand

Not from the original source. Are you sure that Susie and Bill are selling their house? I mean, you only heard that at second hand from Anita.
See also: hand, second
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

at second hand

Received from some source other than the original. For example, I learned of Mary's divorce at second hand. This phrase may be applied to information or to previously owned merchandise. [1400s] Also see at first hand.
See also: hand, second
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 second hand

by hearsay rather than direct observation or experience.
See also: hand, second
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
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