out of hand

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.

Berries, peaches, cherries, plums — anything that can be washed at home and eaten out of hand.

From Salon • Jun. 18, 2026

With oil prices elevated, officials are wary of allowing inflation to get out of hand while acknowledging the potential for higher rates and other impacts to slow economic growth, potentially to the point of contraction.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 16, 2026

"It was a childish escapade that got out of hand," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

The selloff in defense stocks has gotten out of hand, according to Citi analyst John Godyn.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

Tessie had come down to clear her head and have her coffee and already the day was getting out of hand.

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides