english
1
general::
Phrase(s): *in hand in one’s possession or control. (*Typically: be ~; have something ~.) • It’s in hand. I have it right here. • The papers are in hand. Have no fear.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
1. Accessible at the present time, as in The company has very little cash in hand. [Late 1300s] 2. Under one's control or authority, as in The police had the situation well in hand. [Early 1600s] 3. In process, being settled, as in He was willing to give full attention to the matter in hand. [Late 1300s] Also see IN ONE'S HANDS.
American Heritage Idioms