手に余る

• Reading: てにあまる
• Romaji: te ni amaru
• Kanji breakdown: 手 (shu/te) — hand; 余 (yo/ama) — surplus, excess, beyond
• Pronunciation: /te.ni.a.ma.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To be beyond one's capacities; to be unmanageable; to be more than one can handle.

A set expression combining 手 (hand, ability) and 余る (to be in excess). Literally means something overflows from one's hands — the task or problem exceeds what one person can manage. Used when a problem, workload, or situation is too difficult or complex to handle alone. Often prompts seeking help from superiors or colleagues.

Examples

1. この問題は私には手に余るので、上司に相談した。 This problem was beyond my capacity to handle, so I consulted my supervisor.
2. 手に余る量の仕事を一人で抱え込んでしまった。 I ended up taking on an unmanageable amount of work all by myself.
3. 子供の反抗期が手に余って困っている。 I'm at a loss because my child's rebellious phase is more than I can handle.

Usage Guide

Context: workplace, parenting, problem-solving

Tone: candid

Origin & History

Idiomatic expression where 手 represents one's capability or reach, and 余る means to exceed or overflow. The image is of something so large it spills out of one's hands, beyond the grip of control.

Cultural Context

Era: Edo period

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal