1.
unmanageable; beyond one's control; too much to handle
Describes a person, situation, or problem that is too difficult or unruly to deal with. Literally means 'cannot be borne by one's hands.'
あの子は手に負えない。
That child is unmanageable.
この問題は私には手に負えない。
This problem is beyond my ability to handle.
手に負えない状況になる前に、専門家に相談したほうがいい。
You should consult an expert before the situation gets out of hand.
USAGE:
This expression functions as an adjective-like phrase modifying nouns with の or used as a predicate. It is always used in the negative form; the affirmative 手に負える (manageable) is rarely used on its own.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 手に負えない + noun (子供, 状況, 問題)
- ～は手に負えない (~ is unmanageable)
NUANCE:
Often used about unruly children, out-of-control situations, or problems that exceed one's capabilities. Can also describe difficult animals or machines.