expression, i-adjective
understaffed; short-handed; not enough workers
Describes a situation where there are not enough people to do the work. Often used in business or event contexts.
今日はアルバイトが休んでいて手がない。
We're short-handed today because a part-timer is off.
忙しい時期
Even though it's a busy period, we're understaffed and struggling.
expression, i-adjective
have no way to deal with; have no options; can't do anything about
Expresses that one has exhausted all possible means and there is nothing more one can do. Often used with a sense of resignation.
ここまで来るともう手がない。
At this point, there's nothing more we can do.
彼を説得する手がない。
I have no way to persuade him.
expression, i-adjective
no reason not to; might as well; why not
Used after a negative verb form (〜ない) to mean 'there is no reason not to do something' or 'one can't afford not to'. Often carries a nuance of strong recommendation or inevitability.
こんなにおいしい料理を食べない手がない。
There's no reason not to eat such delicious food.
彼が誘ってくれたんだから、行かない手がないよ。
Since he invited me, I can't afford not to go.