items at hand

[/ˈaɪtəmz æt hænd/]
noun phrase
assuntos em pauta; itens em questão; questões presentes
1. The matters, tasks, or subjects that are currently being discussed, dealt with, or requiring immediate attention
Let's focus on the items at hand before we discuss future projects.
Vamos focar nos assuntos em pauta antes de discutirmos projetos futuros.
2. Things that are physically present or available for use in a particular moment
With the items at hand, we can start assembling the furniture.
Com os itens à mão, podemos começar a montar o móvel.
3. The immediate or pressing concerns requiring one's attention
We must address the items at hand before considering new initiatives.
Devemos resolver as questões presentes antes de considerar novas iniciativas.
This phrase is commonly used in professional, academic, and formal settings in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese. It emphasizes prioritization and staying focused on immediate concerns rather than tangential issues. In Brazil, it's frequently heard in business meetings and academic discussions as a way to maintain focus on the agenda.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
matters at handissues at handtasks at handbusiness at handmatters in question
Antonyms / Antônimos
future concernsabsent mattersirrelevant issues

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
assuntos em pauta; itens em questão
Most common usage in formal and informal contexts
Rio de Janeiro
questões presentes; temas em discussão
Slightly more colloquial preference
São Paulo
itens em foco; assuntos correntes
Common in business contexts
Portugal
assuntos em questão; matérias em análise
More formal tone preferred

Related Words

at handin handon handsubject matteragenda

Related Idioms & Phrases

the matter at hand
get down to business
stick to the point
stay focused
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