EN
EN
EN
EN
FR
ES
RU
IT
TR
UK
have sth on one's hands
/hav ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ ˌɒn wˈɒnz hˈandz/
/hæv ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ ˌɑːn wˈʌnz hˈændz/
to have sth on one's hands
[PHRASE]What is the origin of the idiom "have something on one's hands" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "have something on one's hands" is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 16th century. It is used to describe a situation where someone has a problem or responsibility that they need to deal with.
Examples
1. They may not have broken the law themselves, but the CEOs certainly sat on their hands and allowed these illegal activities to happen unchecked.
2. She's had a lot of time on her hands lately.
3. Since he retired, Bill has too much time on his hands.
4. The gymnast landed gracefully on her hands, supporting her weight on her wrists.
more