On your hands Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Subject Specific The phrase often relates to time or tasks, not emotions or objects. She had too much paperwork on her hands to join the meeting. Pro Tip 2/3Not Always Literal It's used metaphorically to suggest mental or emotional occupation. After retirement, he found himself with too much time on his hands. Pro Tip 3/3Potential Burden Can imply an unwanted surplus of time or tasks. I have too much time on my hands and nothing to do.