Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the transfer of ownership, possession, or control of something from one person or entity to another. It implies a change in the holder or custodian of an object, asset, or responsibility.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “The property changed hands after the previous owner decided to sell it.”
- “The company changed hands several times before finally stabilizing under new management.”
- “The antique vase has changed hands multiple times throughout history, each time fetching a higher price.”
Origin: The origin of the idiom “change hands” is literal, referring to the physical act of transferring an object from one person’s hands to another’s. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe the transfer of ownership or control of various entities, including property, businesses, and responsibilities. It emphasizes the idea of a transition or exchange between different parties.
