Idiom
pull strings
Meanings
To use personal influence or connections to achieve a result, especially to help someone get an opportunity or special treatment.
Definition
To pull strings means to use personal influence or connections to get something done, often for someone else.
If you pull strings, you use your relationships, status, or connections to make something happen. This often involves getting a favor, a job, an appointment, or special access that might be hard to get normally. The phrase suggests behind-the-scenes influence rather than open competition or formal procedures.
Examples
- She pulled strings to get her cousin an interview at the company.
- I don’t want to pull strings; I’d rather earn it on my own.
- He pulled strings so we could get a table at the fully booked restaurant.
- They had to pull strings to get an appointment with the specialist so quickly.
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