Translation guide
The English phrase 'out of hand' has two main meanings: (1) something becoming uncontrollable or getting out of control, and (2) rejecting something immediately without consideration. This guide helps learners express these ideas naturally in Japanese.
Describing a situation, person, or thing that has become impossible to control or manage.
A common phrase meaning 'unmanageable' or 'beyond one's control'. Used for situations, people, or things that are too difficult to handle.
Rejecting an idea, proposal, or suggestion instantly and without discussion.
Means 'to reject immediately'. This is the most direct equivalent for dismissing something out of hand.
彼の提案は即座に却下された。
His proposal was rejected out of hand.
The English phrase 'out of hand' cannot be translated word-for-word into Japanese. Expressions like '手から出る' are not used. Use the phrases provided above depending on the intended meaning.
この状況はもう手に負えない。
This situation is already out of hand.
彼の行動は手に負えなくなった。
His behavior got out of hand.
Literally 'unable to be gathered up', meaning a situation has become chaotic and uncontrollable. Often used for large-scale or public disorder.
デモが暴動に発展し、収拾がつかない状態だ。
The demonstration turned into a riot and is completely out of hand.
A technical term meaning 'uncontrollable' or 'out of control'. Used for machines, systems, or abstract processes.
システムが制御不能に陥った。
The system went out of hand.
Literally 'to kick away', meaning to flatly reject or dismiss something without consideration. Stronger and more emphatic than 即座に却下する.
彼女はその申し出を一蹴した。
She dismissed the offer out of hand.
Means 'to deny from the start' or 'to reject outright'. Emphasizes refusal without even considering the idea.
彼は私の意見を頭から否定した。
He rejected my opinion out of hand.