tie one's hands

1. Prevent one from acting, as in I can't help you this time; my hands are tied by the club's rules. This metaphoric term transfers physical bondage to other kinds of constraint. It was first recorded in 1642.

Example Sentences

I am not for marriage at all—no! not for myself,—it is to tie one's hands, to become a prisoner,—and that would not suit me; but if I were inclined to captivity, I should like Mademoiselle G�ldmar for my beautiful gaoler.

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Related Words

• block 
• curb 
• frustrate 
• hamstring 
• hinder 
• hobble 
• hold up 
• impede 
• inconvenience 
• inhibit 
• obstruct 
• prevent 
• retard 
• stymie 
• thwart