COMMON If you have your hands full, you are very busy. She's doing fine. Got her hands full with the kids, of course. The federal government will obviously have its hands full trying to enforce environmental laws while keeping residents happy. Note: You can also say that someone's hands are full. He's managing all three projects so his hands are full. Note: You often use these expressions to show that someone has many responsibilities or jobs, and does not have enough time for any more.