wring (one's) hands

To display one's worries about something but not act to address it. We must not just wring our hands about this famine. We must act to help those who are starving.

wring your hands

show great distress.

ˌwring your ˈhands

twist and rub your hands together because you are very worried, upset or anxious: He stood there, wringing his hands in despair. ♢ It’s no use just wringing our hands — we must do something. ▶ ˈhand-wringing noun: No amount of hand-wringing can change the situation.

See also: hand, wring

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

See also:

References in periodicals archive

You politicians wring your hands about the plight of all and sundry in other lands.

It's time to say enough is enough! LETTERS

DON'T wring your hands if you are unhappy with the election result - according to "world-renowned psychic" Victoria Bullis you should be cursing the heavens instead.

Naughty planet made us cross

"Life is too short to wring your hands over every little issue that comes across your desk.

Parker reflects on change and progress. (Last Change of Command)

So, Coventry City Council wake up and do something and don't just wring your hands.

Letter: Your Say - Still waiting for a crossing

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