ties up

VERB

hamper, hinder

Synonyms

WEAK

bind clog confine curb delay entrammel fetter hog-tie hold leash limit lock up obstruct restrain restrict shackle stop tie one's hands trammel

Antonyms

WEAK

aid assist encourage free help

VERB

hamper

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bind clog lock up

WEAK

confine curb delay entrammel fetter hinder hog-tie hold leash limit obstruct restrain restrict shackle stop trammel

Antonyms

STRONGEST

free

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.

The fund’s new strategy aims for Vision 2030 objectives with less capital, as its setup ties up funds in local projects.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

Prison officer John Sneddon is part of the team at Barlinnie's Link Centre that ties up the loose ends prisoners leave behind on the outside.

From BBC • Dec. 10, 2025

It’s a problem for law enforcement agencies around Virginia, one that advocates, attorneys and leaders like Clair say ties up policing resources and contributes to poor patient outcomes.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 11, 2024

He visited Pyongyang in July and toured a weapons exhibit with Kim, one of the most striking signs of deepening ties up to that point.

From Reuters • Sep. 17, 2023

"It all ties up somehow," repeated Jeter, "and I intend to find out how."

From Lords of the Stratosphere by Burks, Arthur J.