頭あたまが上あがらない

expression, i-adjective

be no match for; cannot hold one's head up to

Idiomatic expression meaning one is in a weaker position due to authority, obligation, or debt, and cannot act as an equal. Often used with 〜に.

• 彼かれには借しゃっ金きんがあって、頭あたまが上あがらない。

  I owe him money, so I can't hold my head up to him.

• あの上じょう司しにはいつも頭あたまが上あがらない。

  I'm always no match for that boss.