1.
having nothing to do; being bored; being idle; being at a loose end
A state of having nothing to occupy one's hands or time, resulting in restlessness or boredom. Composed of 手持ち (something in hand) + 無沙汰 (lack of activity).
Usage
手持ち無沙汰 describes the uncomfortable feeling of having nothing to do, especially in situations where one is waiting or has idle time. It can function as a na-adjective or noun.
Common collocations
- 手持ち無沙汰になる (to become idle/bored)
- 手持ち無沙汰で困る (to be troubled by having nothing to do)
- 手持ち無沙汰を紛らわす (to distract oneself from boredom)
Similar words
暇 means free time or having nothing to do and is more casual. 退屈 means boredom. 手持ち無沙汰 specifically implies awkward idleness or restlessness from having nothing to occupy one's hands.