Hands Are Tied
Unable to act because of rules, lack of authority, or circumstances beyond your control.
Examples
- I wanted to help you move, but my hands were tied after my boss scheduled me for the weekend shift.
- My hands are tied until the committee approves the budget, so I can't book the venue yet.
- Are your hands tied on this or can you bend the rules just this once?
Quote
If you can't handle me at my worst, then you don't deserve me at my best.
Remix: Left when everything fell apart? Don't show up for the victory lap.