Meaning trap
hand out
dispense punishment or criticism
to impose or deliver punishment, criticism, or other negative consequences, often in an official or authoritative way.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to impose or deliver punishment, criticism, or other negative consequences, often in an official or authoritative way.
'hand out' also has the more basic meaning 'distribute'; this is the advanced sense.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
The coach was quick to hand out criticism after the team's disappointing performance.
Some argue that schools should not hand out harsh punishments for minor infractions, as this can damage students' motivation.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: The referee handed out him a red card.
Say: The referee handed him a red card. / handed out a red card.
When both the person and the thing appear, drop 'out' ('handed him a card') or keep it without the person ('handed out cards').
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
In news/speech, courts 'hand out' sentences and fines; 'impose a custodial sentence' is legal register.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
hand out + penalty
- fines
- punishment
- a sentence
- penalties
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- hand out (distribute) — 'hand out' also has the more basic meaning 'distribute'; this is the advanced sense.