Out of hand

usgb
adverb

Not under control.

The party got out of hand and the police were called.
Visual representation of "out of hand" - Not under control

Often appears as...

  • get out of hand
  • is out of hand

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "out of hand"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Control Lost

Used when a situation becomes too difficult to manage or oversee.

Illustration for Control Lost
The demonstration quickly got out of hand, with crowds blocking the streets.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negatively Spiraled

Often implies that an event or behavior has deteriorated in a negative way.

Illustration for Negatively Spiraled
Their playful banter soon got out of hand and turned into a serious argument.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Intervention Needed

Suggests that some external help or action is required to regain control.

Illustration for Intervention Needed
The kids were so noisy and mischievous; the situation was getting out of hand.
Visual representation of the word "Out of hand"

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