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
The status of the pirates was not mentioned again, but a photo posted on X showed armed Navy personnel guarding men who had their hands tied behind their backs.
From BBC ● Jan. 30, 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
