Translation guide
In Japanese, 'both hands' is commonly expressed with 両手 (りょうて), but the phrasing changes depending on the action or context. This guide covers the most natural ways to say 'both hands' and related expressions.
both hands
Referring to both hands as a body part or in general statements.
The standard word for 'both hands'. Used in most contexts.
Please raise both hands.
He covered his face with both hands.
A more literary or formal term for 'both hands'. Rare in everyday speech.
To welcome with open arms (literally 'both hands').
Describing an action done with both hands.
Specifically for holding or carrying objects with both hands.
Expressing that both hands are available or not holding anything.
Means 'both hands become free'. Often used when putting something down.
Put down your luggage and free up both hands.
Means 'both hands are full/occupied'. The opposite of free.
Common idioms or set phrases involving both hands.
Literally 'raise both hands', but idiomatically means 'to give up' or 'to surrender', or sometimes 'to welcome wholeheartedly'.
He wholeheartedly agreed to the proposal (lit. raised both hands in agreement).
I give up; I surrender (lit. I raise both hands and surrender).
Idiom meaning 'to have two beautiful women as companions' or 'to be blessed with two good things at once'. Literally 'flowers in both hands'.
While 両方の手 (りょうほうのて) is grammatically correct, it is rarely used in natural Japanese. Stick to 両手 (りょうて) for almost all situations.
When describing an action, 両手で (with both hands) is the most common pattern. For example, 両手で押す (push with both hands), 両手で掴む (grab with both hands).
This box is heavy, so please hold it with both hands.
Sorry, my hands are full and I can't open the door.
He's dating two beautiful sisters—lucky guy (lit. flowers in both hands).