手てをつかえる

expression, ichidan verb

place both hands on the ground; prostrate oneself

Used in formal or traditional contexts to express deep respect, apology, or to present a request. Often associated with bowing deeply while kneeling, with hands placed on the ground. Compare 手を突く (てをつく), which is more common for simply putting hands on the ground.

See also: 手をつく

• 彼かれは深ふかく頭あたまを下さげ、手てをつかえて謝しゃ罪ざいした。

  He bowed deeply, placing his hands on the ground, and apologized.

• 昔むかしの人ひとは、目め上うえの人ひとに頼たのみごとをするとき、手てをつかえてお願ねがいした。

  In the old days, people would place their hands on the ground when making a request to a superior.