HAND-TO-MOUTH Synonyms: 70 Similar and Opposite Words

hand-to-mouth

adjective

ˈhan(d)-tə-ˈmau̇th

Definition of hand-to-mouth

as in sparse

less plentiful than what is normal, necessary, or desirable survived on a hand-to-mouth income that came from any odd job that he could find

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of hand-to-mouth The occupants of this Neolithic housing development were not hand-to-mouth hunter-gatherers but settled inhabitants of a fertile floodplain. — Literary Hub, 26 Jan. 2026 The film is not blind to how easily big dreams can be derailed, especially for the hand-to-mouth creative class in a Midwestern outpost. — Peter Tonguette, The Washington Examiner, 9 Jan. 2026 While their musician patriarch is on the road, the eldest sibling has become the clear-eyed voice of discipline in the household who struggles with the strain of their hand-to-mouth life. — Rob Hubbard, Twin Cities, 20 Dec. 2025 Still, most of Yopougon’s residents work informally and live hand-to-mouth. — Adrien Marotte, Christian Science Monitor, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for hand-to-mouth

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hand-to-mouth

Adjective

The Sullivans’ sparse, slightly surreal arrangements take an economic approach.

— W. Reed Putnam, Pitchfork, 30 July 2026
Some weeks customers were so sparse that Martinez couldn’t afford to offer his now-signature rib-eye taco.

— Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 25 July 2026

Definition of sparse

Adjective

Headline figures such as tasks completed, queries handled or hours saved can look impressive while concealing errors, rework, poor customer outcomes and escalating operating expenses.

— Bernard Marr, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026
Habits like poor sleep, heavy drinking and smoking often make things worse, and work pressure, financial strain and caring for aging parents can compound the effects.

— Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 27 July 2026

Definition of poor

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hand-to-hand

hand-to-mouth

hand truck

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“Hand-to-mouth.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hand-to-mouth. Accessed 31 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of hand-to-mouth

adjective

Example Sentences

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