hands are tied

Idioms  

1. see tie one's hands.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

hands are tied

Iranian diplomats have told mediators they would like to find a compromise but their hands are tied.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026

"I feel like my hands are tied because I can't find her," she laments.

From Barron's ● Jun. 30, 2026

But, county officials say their hands are tied in their ability to stop or slow development.

From Salon ● Jun. 6, 2026

Greco has since heard from judges across the state that they feel their hands are tied.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 8, 2026

But a woman who came up with a palatable wild dog and rhubarb stew is bound to feel as if her hands are tied here.

From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins