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.

On Wednesday, Ben Gvir sparked an outcry internationally but also within his own government by publishing a video of dozens of activists kneeling with their foreheads on the ground and their hands tied.

From Barron's • May 22, 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

I have no idea what the judges said or did after the meeting, but over the next few months, Badenhorst seemed to have his hands tied.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela