hands are tied
idiom
—used to say that someone is unable to act freely because something (such as a rule or law) prevents it
I'd like to help you, but my hands are tied.
The judge says her hands are tied because the law requires a harsh sentence in such cases.
Examples of hands are tied in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
When approached to intervene, brands default to the position that their hands are tied, pointing to the union’s lack of legal status and MoLVT conciliation notes that side with the employer.
—
Sourcing Journal, 15 Oct. 2025
To some degree, the district’s hands are tied.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2025
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Sourcing Journal, 15 Oct. 2025
To some degree, the district’s hands are tied.
—The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 15 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Hands are tied.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hands%20are%20tied. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.
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