French translation of handy is 
portée de main

Meaning of "handy" in English

The word "handy" in English describes something or someone that is convenient and easy to use or access. It implies a degree of usefulness, suggesting that an object or person is well-suited for a particular purpose or task. The term can also refer to possessing skill or dexterity in handling tasks, often implying a readiness to use tools or solve problems effectively. "Handy" is frequently used in contexts where practicality and convenience are valued, like having tools or resources readily available.

Meaning of "portée de main" in French

In French, "portée de main" translates to "within reach" or "at hand." It denotes the idea of something being readily accessible or easily obtainable when needed. This expression is often used to describe objects or resources that are conveniently located for immediate use. It does not imply skill, as the English "handy" can, but focuses more on proximity and availability. The phrase emphasizes ease of access and suggests that one does not need to go far to find what is needed.

Pronunciation of "handy" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˈhæn.di/

Pronunciation Variations: In American English, "handy" is typically pronounced with a clear "h" sound and a stressed first syllable. Variations occur mainly in the accentuation and intonation, with some regional accents perhaps softening the "d."

Pronunciation of "portée de main" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /pɔʁ.te də mɛ̃/

Pronunciation Variations: In standard French, "portée de main" is pronounced with a nasal "in" sound in "main." Regional accents may affect the nasal quality slightly, but this expression is widely pronounced consistently across French-speaking regions.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. This tool is really handy for quick repairs. (Cet outil est vraiment à portée de main pour des réparations rapides.)
2. She always keeps a bottle of water handy in her car. (Elle garde toujours une bouteille d'eau à portée de main dans sa voiture.)
3. It's handy to have a map when exploring a new city. (Il est pratique d'avoir une carte à portée de main lorsqu'on explore une nouvelle ville.)
4. The bandage was handy in the first aid kit. (Le bandage était à portée de main dans la trousse de premiers secours.)
5. He found a handy shortcut to work. (Il a trouvé un raccourci pratique pour aller au travail.)
6. These tips will be handy for your next trip abroad. (Ces conseils seront à portée de main pour votre prochain voyage à l'étranger.)
7. Handy apps make traveling much easier nowadays. (Les applications pratiques facilitent grandement les voyages de nos jours.)
8. I keep a flashlight handy beside my bed. (Je garde une lampe de poche à portée de main à côté de mon lit.)
9. Her handy skills in carpentry saved us a lot of money. (Ses compétences pratiques en menuiserie nous ont fait économiser beaucoup d'argent.)
10. Having a pen handy is always a good idea. (Avoir un stylo à portée de main est toujours une bonne idée.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "handy" in English

Synonyms: convenient, useful, accessible, practical, helpful, ready, available, nearby, serviceable, adaptable.

Antonyms: inconvenient, inaccessible, unhelpful, impractical, useless.

Similar Words: efficient, manageable, beneficial, advantageous, suitable.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "portée de main" in French

Synonyms: accessible, disponible, pratique, proche, immédiat, commode, prêt.

Antonyms: -.

Similar Words: à proximité, facile d'accès, sous la main.

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