1. Phrasal Verb: This is the most common usage. It means to pass something on, usually something like knowledge, skills, or a legacy.
* Example: "My grandfather handed down his woodworking skills to his children." (verb phrase)
2. Adjective: This usage is less common, but it describes something that has been passed down through generations, usually referring to something traditional or old-fashioned.
* Example: "The hand-down recipe for our family's apple pie is a closely guarded secret." (adjective)
3. Noun: While less common, "hand-down" can also be used as a noun to refer to a decision made by someone in authority.
* Example: "The judge's hand-down in the case was a surprise to everyone." (noun)
It's important to look at the context of the sentence to determine the correct part of speech.