The sound of one hand clapping

For one hand to clap it must clap on something else that is not a hand. When a person claps with one hand it is because the other hand is busy holding something and, depending on the situation, it means that either the clap is really deserved or it is just out of habit.

For example if you are holding a baby or holding yourself in order not to fall and you still make the effort to clap it is because you feel that it is deserving and you will clap with one hand. That sound, even though it is not as loud as a two handed clap, will be taken as a very meaningful action.

The contrary would be one hand clapping by itself while the other hand is busy with something unimportant, such as a piece of paper or holding a handbag that could very well be held on the arm. This gives the impression that the clap is not important, the sound is even softer and there is no enthusiasm and appreciation. Some people would prefer no clapping at all.

The sound of one hand clapping can be a sound of joy or a sound of unimportance. It all depends on where it comes from.