out of hand

What is the origin of the idiom "out of hand" and when to use it?

The idiom "out of hand" has its roots in literal usage, referring to something physically escaping one's grasp or control. In this sense, it originated from the image of a situation where an object or animal slips out of someone's hand, making it difficult to manage or contain. It is often employed when referring to conflicts, arguments, or disputes that have escalated to a point where they cannot be effectively resolved or mediated.