The phrase "hand by a hair" is spelled using the standard English alphabet. However, to explain the pronunciation of each word, we can use the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Hand" is pronounced /hænd/ with a voiced "h" and a short "a" sound. "By" is pronounced /baɪ/ with a diphthong "ai" sound. "A" is pronounced /ə/ with a schwa sound. Finally, "hair" is pronounced /heər/ with a long "a" and a silent "r" sound. Together, the phrase is pronounced /hænd baɪ ə heər/.
"Hand by a hair" is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe a situation where someone manages to narrowly escape danger or an undesirable outcome. It implies that the individual was at the brink of facing a negative consequence or experiencing a mishap, but by a small margin, they were able to evade or overcome it.
The phrase draws imagery from the literal sense of gripping or holding onto something by a single hair, which is extremely delicate and easily breakable. Similarly, in the figurative sense, "hand by a hair" signifies managing to hold onto or avoid a precarious situation in a very precise manner, where any slight misjudgment or error could have resulted in a negative outcome.
The expression is often used to emphasize the narrowness of the escape or avoidance, highlighting the element of luck or close call experienced by the person involved. It conveys a sense of relief and appreciation for the small margin of victory or survival, acknowledging the fine line between disaster and success.
In summary, "hand by a hair" is an idiomatic phrase that captures the idea of narrowly escaping or avoiding a negative situation or outcome. It denotes a close call or stroke of luck, where the individual was able to overcome an obstacle or danger by the tiniest of margins.