go away empty-handed
To return from an experience or event without having gained anything. I worked so hard to prepare for the competition, and I still went away empty-handed, thanks to another fourth-place finish. Don't go away from the dessert table empty-handed—bring me a piece of cake!
go away empty-handed
Fig. to depart with nothing. I hate for you to go away empty-handed, but I cannot afford to contribute any money. They came hoping for some food, but they had to go away empty-handed.