tied down

tie (one) down

To constrain, restrict, impede, or limit one's ability to do something or go somewhere. I would love to try something different, but my career has really tied me down. I just don't think my experience applies to any other profession. The company is trying to tie us down with appeals and injunctions to keep the lawsuit from reaching a court. Once you're tied down with kids, travel anywhere becomes extremely difficult.See also: down, tie

tied down

Fig. restricted by responsibilities. I love my home, but sometimes I don't like being tied down. I don't feel tied down, even though I have a lot of responsibility.See also: down, tie