to be unable to do what you want to do because of rules, promises, etc. :
I really wish I could help but my hands are tied.
to be unable to do what you want to do because of rules, promises, etc. :
I really wish I could help but my hands are tied.
Oxford Advanced Learner's English Dictionary. Оксфордский английский словарь для изучающик язык на продвинутом уровне. 2005