tie one's hands

Idioms and Phrases

Prevent one from acting, as in I can't help you this time; my hands are tied by the club's rules . This metaphoric term transfers physical bondage to other kinds of constraint. It was first recorded in 1642.

Example Sentences

I am not for marriage at all—no! not for myself,—it is to tie one's hands, to become a prisoner,—and that would not suit me; but if I were inclined to captivity, I should like Mademoiselle G�ldmar for my beautiful gaoler.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• block
• curb
• frustrate
• hamstring
• hinder
• hobble
• hold up
• impede
• inconvenience
• inhibit
• obstruct
• prevent
• retard
• stymie
• thwart