English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Idle hands are the devil’s tools
Meaning
The idiom "idle hands are the devil's tools" means that when people have nothing to do, they tend to get into trouble or engage in negative behavior. It suggests that a lack of activity or productivity can lead to mischief and harm.
Usage
- When my friend lost his job, he spent all his time at home with idle hands, and soon enough he started getting into trouble with the law.
- I always try to keep my kids busy with activities or chores when they have idle hands, otherwise they tend to get into mischief.
- The idler you are, the more devilishly clever you become.
- Some people say that idle hands are the devil's tools, but I think a lack of creativity can be just as dangerous.
- When my husband lost his job, he spent all his time at home with nothing to do, and soon enough he started drinking excessively and neglecting his family.
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom "idle hands are the devil's tools" is not entirely clear, but it dates back to at least the 17th century. One of the earliest recorded uses of the phrase can be found in a collection of proverbs from 1670: " Idle hands are the Devils tools." Another source suggests that the idiom comes from a 16th-century collection of sayings, where it is written as "Idle hands work for the devil." The meaning of the idiom has remained relatively consistent over time, although its usage may vary depending on cultural and regional contexts. In some cultures, the phrase may be understood more literally, while in others it may be seen as a metaphorical warning against idle thought or behavior.
Synonyms in English
- A stitch in time saves nine.
- Better busy than bored.
- The grass is always greener on the other side.
- Time flies when you're having fun.
- Sitting on the fence.
Synonyms in other languages
- La mano que mueve el diablo (Spanish) - "The hand that moves the devil."
- Les paumes qui font du mal (French) - "The hands that do harm."
- 烂漫手掚着钜片 (Chinese) - "Idle hands holding poisonous needles."
- L'idole des mains vides (French) - "The idol of idle hands."
- לַנּוֹת רַעִים מֶאנַךְ הַמֶּן כַּן שֶׁיֵּקַךְ מֶאנַךְ (Hebrew) - "Your idle hands will cause harm."