This Spanish slang phrase is used to describe a person who is destitute or very poor. It literally translates to 'one hand in front and the other behind', which is a metaphor for having nothing.
Examples
- Spanish: Después de perder su trabajo, Juan vive una mano a’lante y la otra atrás.
- English: After losing his job, Juan is living with one hand in front and the other behind, meaning he has nothing.