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Region: General | Usage example: She won the award hands down.

Hands down

Meaning

Undoubtedly or easily.

Usage

Used when praising clear winners.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Horse racing phrase about holding arms down.

Used since the 19th century.

Related Idioms

Down to the wire

Until the very last moment.

Caught with your pants down

Surprised while unprepared.

Go down in flames

Fail spectacularly.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.