hands are tied

1. see tie one's hands.

Example Sentences

Thousands of families now risk calls from debt collectors — but officials say their hands were tied: unpaid balances were straining the district’s food service fund, which is federally required to be self-sustaining.

From Salon

Her hands are tied by D.C.’s unique status under the Home Rule Act, which granted limited self-government to the District.

From Salon