hands tied

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That complicates matters for the Fed, which might like to lower interest rates to help boost a slowing job market, but it could find its hands tied.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

“It’s that they had their hands tied behind their backs.”

From Salon • Aug. 26, 2025

And though they won that game, and freshened up their pitching staff by calling up Bobby Miller on Saturday for some extra length, Roberts had his hands tied as Gonsolin started to lose command.

From Los Angeles Times • May 24, 2025

That will probably leave his successor with her hands tied for much of her six-year term.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 15, 2024

“Shamika has her hands tied with one of her bigger clients, and Ogonna said she’s got to spend the night calling people for the rally, so we’re on our own.”

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro