ENGLISH
REFERENCE

have time on one's hands

idiom
Meaning

To have additional or spare time in which one has nothing particular to do or accomplish.


Examples
SIMPLE

I have plenty of time on my hands this weekend.

CONTEXTUAL

Since he retired last month, he has had a lot of time on his hands to learn gardening.

COMPLEX

With the project finally completed and no pressing obligations, she found herself with significant time on her hands to pursue her long-neglected interest in painting.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a week is a long time in politics

    In politics, much change can occur in a short space of time.

  2. 02

    abound in one's own sense

    To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.

  3. 03

    about time

    Far past the desired time.

  4. 04

    ace up one's sleeve

    A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.

  5. 05

    act one's age

    To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.

  6. 06

    act one's age, not one's shoe size

    Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).

  7. 07

    afraid of one's own shadow

    Exceptionally timid.

  8. 08

    air one's dirty laundry in public

    To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.

Last updated July 12, 2026