Fold your hands
phrase
To put one hand over the other when they are not being used.
When the teacher was giving the instructions, he asked the students to fold their hands and listen carefully.
Often appears as...
- fold your hands and listen
- fold your hands and stand
phrase
To hold hands together in a position of humility or respect, especially when praying or meditating.
Before they began their meal, they all folded their hands and closed their eyes for grace.
Often appears as...
- fold your hands and pray
- fold your hands in respect
phrase
To stop working or become passive.
The boss said we can't just fold our hands and watch as our competitors take over the market.
Often appears as...
- fold your hands and do nothing
- fold your hands and watch
Usage tips
Disapproving
phrase
To put one hand over the other when they are not being used.
When the teacher was giving the instructions, he asked the students to fold their hands and listen carefully.
Often appears as...
- fold your hands and listen
- fold your hands and stand
phrase
To hold hands together in a position of humility or respect, especially when praying or meditating.
Before they began their meal, they all folded their hands and closed their eyes for grace.
Often appears as...
- fold your hands and pray
- fold your hands in respect
phrase
To stop working or become passive.
The boss said we can't just fold our hands and watch as our competitors take over the market.
Often appears as...
- fold your hands and do nothing
- fold your hands and watch
Usage tips
Disapproving
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/2Classroom Etiquette
Use this phrase to show attentiveness or respect in educational settings, as a sign of good manners.
Children, please fold your hands before we start the story.
Pro Tip 2/2Body Language
Folding hands can imply you're attentive but also that you're not willing to participate actively.
He folded his hands during the meeting, appearing aloof.
Pro Tip 1/2Classroom Etiquette
Use this phrase to show attentiveness or respect in educational settings, as a sign of good manners.
Children, please fold your hands before we start the story.
Pro Tip 2/2Body Language
Folding hands can imply you're attentive but also that you're not willing to participate actively.
He folded his hands during the meeting, appearing aloof.
Pro Tip 1/2Classroom Etiquette
Use this phrase to show attentiveness or respect in educational settings, as a sign of good manners.
Children, please fold your hands before we start the story.
Pro Tip 2/2Body Language
Folding hands can imply you're attentive but also that you're not willing to participate actively.
He folded his hands during the meeting, appearing aloof.
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