idioms using “string”

Have someone on a string

To have control over someone (like controlling a puppet with strings)

“The politician’s financial backers have him on a string; he was told to vote against the law to protect the environment.”

First string

Top or best team

“The software project will speed ahead when our first string developers get started on it next month.”

Pull strings

To use one’s influence

“Sakamoto-san’s father pulled a few strings to get her a job at the government ministry.”

Control the purse strings

To control the money

“Marketers are becoming increasingly aware that it is often the women that control the purse strings in the family budget.”

No strings attached

No extra and burdensome conditions must be met

“Yamanaka-san was pleased to find out that his bank loan had no strings attached.”