hands-off operation
noun phraseUK /ˌhændz ˈɒf ˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/
US /ˌhændz ˈɔf ˌɑpəˈreɪʃən/
A way of doing something where the boss lets other people do the work without stepping in.
The new manager runs a hands-off operation and trusts the team to make their own choices.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A business or activity run with very little direct control from the owner.
Their hands-off operation lets each shop decide its own opening hours.
3. A military or technical action carried out without direct human control.
The drone was a hands-off operation, guided entirely by software.
4. A style of teaching where the teacher lets students explore on their own.
Her classroom is a hands-off operation, with kids learning by trying things themselves.