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hands tied

ADJECTIVE
defenseless
Synonyms
STRONGEST
helpless unarmed unprotected
WEAK
caught endangered exposed in line of fire indefensible like a clay pigeon like a sitting duck naked on the line on-the-spot open out on limb pigeon poor unguarded up the creek weak wide open
Antonyms
WEAK
powerful strong
ADJECTIVE
unarmed
Synonyms
STRONGEST
helpless powerless
STRONG
exposed open
WEAK
indefensible like a sitting duck naked unguarded unprotected unshielded vulnerable weaponless wide open
Antonyms
STRONGEST
able strong

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

He said GMB members working there had "their hands tied" by "crumbling infrastructure and non-existent investment".

From BBC • Jul. 14, 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

“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