hands are tied
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Coffee shops are working overtime to assure customers their hands are tied.
From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 3, 2025
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 • Sep. 6, 2025
Army Corps of Engineers, which is overseeing debris removal, says its hands are tied.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 15, 2025
Given these circumstances, since May, Kari and Chalisa say the State Department has been telling Americans in Gaza that its hands are tied and it may be unable to facilitate their evacuation.
From Slate • Oct. 1, 2024
“Well, I am so happy you spoke with her. She will take good care of herself. My hands are tied, Fabiola.”
From "American Street" by Ibi Zoboi
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
