I’ve only got one pair of hands
phrase
Used by someone to say they are busy and can only do one thing at a time.
I'm already making the dinner and washing the dishes. I’ve only got one pair of hands!

Often appears as...
- sorry
- i’ve only got one pair of hands
Usage tips
Colloquial
phrase
Used by someone to say they are busy and can only do one thing at a time.
I'm already making the dinner and washing the dishes. I’ve only got one pair of hands!

Often appears as...
- sorry
- i’ve only got one pair of hands
Usage tips
Colloquial
Definition 1 of 1

Time Management
Expresses being overwhelmed and unable to do everything at once due to time constraints.

When you asked me to babysit on top of my chores, I said I’ve only got one pair of hands.
Stress Indication
Indicates that the speaker is under stress and cannot take on additional tasks.

With the phone ringing and the reports due, I murmured, I’ve only got one pair of hands.
Implicit Refusal
Suggests a polite refusal to additional requests, emphasizing physical limitations.

When asked to run another errand, I sighed, I’ve only got one pair of hands.
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