* Literal Meaning: The idiom likely stems from the literal act of lending a physical hand to help someone. This could be in situations like carrying heavy objects, pulling someone up, or assisting with manual labor.
* Early Usage: While the exact date of its first appearance is unknown, "lend a hand" has been used in English for centuries. It's found in literature as far back as the 16th century, with Shakespeare using it in "The Comedy of Errors" (circa 1592).
* Evolution of Meaning: Over time, the phrase evolved from its literal meaning to become a more figurative way of expressing willingness to help. This shift is common in language, as people draw metaphorical connections between physical actions and abstract concepts.
Similar Idioms: The idiom "lend a hand" has many close synonyms that highlight the same concept of providing help:
* Give a hand: This is very similar in meaning and usage to "lend a hand."
* Offer a helping hand: This is a more formal and slightly more emphatic version.
* Be a helping hand: This emphasizes the person's willingness to help.
Overall, the idiom "he will lend a hand" is a testament to the human need for and capacity for cooperation. It's a concise and powerful way to express the idea of offering support and assistance to others.