Hold the purse strings Meaning in English
expression
Definição
To be the person who controls or manages the money, especially in a family, group, or organization.
Uso & Nuances
This is an idiom used mainly about financial control. Often used in families or organizations, e.g., 'She holds the purse strings.' Neutral/formal. Not about physical purses—it's about managing money. Common collocation: 'who holds the purse strings?'.
Frases de Exemplo
In our house, my mom holds the purse strings.
basic
Who holds the purse strings in this company?
basic
If you hold the purse strings, you decide how money is spent.
basic
Ever since the promotion, it's clear that Sarah holds the purse strings now.
natural
They like to joke that Dad works, but Mom holds the purse strings.
natural
If you want a new computer, talk to Tom—he holds the purse strings around here.
natural