have sth on one's hands

/hav ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ ˌɒn wˈɒnz hˈandz/

/hæv ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ ˌɑːn wˈʌnz hˈændz/

[phrase]

to have sth on one's hands

[PHRASE]

to need to deal with something as a part of one's responsibilities or obligations

to [have] {sth} on {one's} hands definition and meaning

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.

Nearby words

have on

have nothing to lose

have more money than sense

have money to burn

have kittens

have over

have rats in the attic

have rocks in head

have seen better days

have something going with