Have your hands full Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Metaphorical Use The phrase often symbolizes being overwhelmed without literally carrying things. Planning the event alone? You'll have your hands full! Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Tone This phrase can express sympathy or admiration for someone's effort. She has her hands full running the charity, but she’s doing great. Pro Tip 3/3Not About Difficulty Focuses on how busy you are, not on how hard the tasks are. Even though the tasks are easy, I have my hands full with them.