Searching for idioms definitions

[GuyRiendeau]

I am not a teacher!

I would like to know the definitions of those idioms:

1- a hand-me down

2- out of your hands

3- to have your hands full

Thank you very much for your help.

Guy Riendeau

[Searching for language]

I am not a teacher!

I would like to know the definitions of those idioms:

1- a hand-me down Something worn by someone before you, as in your older brother's coat which is now yours.

2- out of your hands There is nothing you can do about a situation any more. If you have a problem with a student, and it has been referred to the principal, it is now out of your hands.

3- to have your hands full If you have so much to do that you cannot accept another task, you have your hands full already.

Thank you very much for your help.

Guy Riendeau

I am not a teacher either.

[David L.]

1- a hand-me down Something worn by someone before you, as in your older brother's coat which is now yours.

The article is handed down from an older sibling (or perhaps relative). It does not refer to just any second-hand garment.

2- out of your hands There is nothing you can do about a situation any more. If you have a problem with a student, and it has been referred to the principal, it is now out of your hands.

It carries the sense that one is now powerless to act in the situation- (to have any influence on how it is handled, or the outcome.)