at first hand

Idioms  

1. Directly from the origin, without intervention or intermediary. For example, I prefer to hear his criticism at first hand, rather than having it passed on by my boss. This phrase uses hand in the sense of “person” (coming directly from one person). [First half of 1700s] Also see at second hand.

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Example Sentences

Juan Carlos said he wrote the memoirs so that young people "can learn about the recent history of your country without distortions, told by someone who lived through the transition at first hand".

From Barron's • Dec. 1, 2025

As for the credibility of Israeli witnesses, who else — other than the early responders who encountered the victims at first hand — should be interviewed and quoted by anyone investigating this?

From Seattle Times • Mar. 7, 2024

"I saw young people learning at first hand about something that so easily could become redundant and irrelevant."

From BBC • Sep. 24, 2023

He had, he said, “seen at first hand the effects of a most grievous fault.”

From New York Times • Feb. 8, 2022

So, by permission of the authorities and with your help, I am coming here to learn what I can at first hand ...

From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover