Get Out of Hand
Meaning
To become uncontrolled, unmanageable, or chaotic.
Origin
The phrase "get out of hand" likely originated from the literal act of losing physical control over something, often an animal. One compelling theory points to the ancient sport of falconry, popular in medieval and early modern England. A trained hawk would rest on the falconer's gloved hand; if it "flew out of hand," it was no longer under direct control, free to pursue its own path. This literal loss of command over a powerful creature quickly evolved into a metaphor for any situation or person that becomes unmanageable, no longer subject to guidance or restraint.
Examples
- The children's birthday party started calmly, but by the time the cake came out, things began to get out of hand.
- If we don't address this small problem now, it could quickly get out of hand and become much bigger.