(get/lay) your hands on (something)
Meaning(s)
1. obtain or find something
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
have you managed to get/lay your hands on one yet?
Analysis
If you 'get or lay your hands on something,' you manage to acquire it, usually after some difficulty. The object in question is often something you have been waiting or looking for eagerly, which is why this expression can have a sense of urgency to it.
Social Examples (Basic)
- The new smartphone is being launched tomorrow. I can't wait to get my hands on it!
- I know you've been looking for a ticket to that gig for a while now. Have you managed to lay your hands on one yet?
Professional Examples (Basic)
- With my job interview coming up, I've been reading everything I can get my hands on about the company.
- Sorry, I trawled through the archives, but I couldn't lay my hands on the document you wanted.