“Hand in glove” is an English idiom that can refer to cooperation or a close relationship, but its exact meaning is debated. Some see it as secretive or nefarious. It should not be confused with “hand in hand” or other similar phrases like “iron fist in a velvet glove.”
The English idiomatic phrase, “hand in glove,” refers to the collaboration of two parties or an intimate or intimate relationship. Unlike many other English idioms, the exact meaning of this phrase is the subject of much debate. In general, it can be used in the broadest sense to talk about cooperation or a close relationship, or in more specific senses, to address ideas of secrecy or discretion as well as nefarious dealings or things that may not be entirely legitimate.
While many dictionaries and other books define the phrase as a generic meaning of cooperation between individuals or groups, other resources show that English speakers often have specific ideas in mind when using it. One of the best ways to illustrate this difference is to compare the phrase with another phrase, “hand in hand,” which doesn’t have the distinct etymology of “hand in hand.” Doing something “hand in hand” simply means cooperating, so the addition of the more colorful word “glove” has led some to see the phrase “hand in hand” as a bit more sophisticated and specific in usage.
Experts who argue that the phrase “hand in glove” has a broad definition say it simply means that the hand fits well in the glove, or that the relationship between the two fits well or works well. Others, however, see the use of the word “glove” in the idiom as a secret activity or relationship. For example, someone might say that a prominent person, “is working closely together,” with a mysterious or obscure party, as a way to drum up speculation about possible partnerships.
It’s important not to confuse the phrase “hand in hand” with other phrases that use similar words. For example, the idiom “knuckle fist in velvet glove” has a different meaning, although some may relate it to the one above in terms of a general analogy. An “iron fist in a velvet glove” refers to a party that takes an aggressive action, but hides that action in a more subtle and gentler method, so that those adversely affected do not feel the full force of the actions. taken against them. This phrase is somewhat out of date, although it can still be used where appropriate. These other phrases reveal more about how someone might use the phrase “hand in hand” to talk about a relationship between two parties.
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