at first hand

Related to at first hand: hand down, on the other hand, wringing hands

at first hand

Directly. As a teacher, I've seen at first hand how reading can change children's lives.
See also: first, hand
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

at first hand

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.
See also: first, hand
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

at first hand

directly or from personal experience.
See also: first, hand
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • be in hand
  • be on hand
  • a hand with
  • a hand with (something)
  • have (something) well in hand
  • in hand
  • have in hand
  • have (something) in hand
  • get out of hand
  • get a hand on (something)