Have on the string Meaning in English
expression
ˈhæv/ /ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈstɹɪŋ
HAV on thuh STRING
hæv/ /ˈɒn/ /ðə, ði/ /stɹˈɪŋ
hav ON thuh string
Definition
To have someone or something under your control, often manipulating their actions or decisions. This phrase is used when one person controls or influences another person closely.
Usage & Nuances
Somewhat informal; often implies manipulation or that the control is not mutual. Used for people ('have someone on the string') or occasionally for situations. Can carry a negative or cunning connotation.
Spanish: tener bajo control - tener a alguien en sus manosPortuguese (BR): ter sob controle - ter alguém na palma da mãoPortuguese (PT): ter sob controlo - ter alguém nas mãosChinese (Simplified): 掌控某人/某事 - 牵着某人的鼻子走Chinese (Traditional): 掌控某人／某事 - 牽著某人的鼻子走Hindi: नियंत्रण में रखना - किसी को अपनी उँगलियों पर चलानाArabic: يمتلك زمام الأمور - يتحكم في شخصBengali: নিয়ন্ত্রণে রাখা - পুতুলের মতো চালানোRussian: держать на поводке - управлятьJapanese: 手のひらで転がす - 操るVietnamese: nắm trong tay - điều khiểnKorean: 손아귀에 쥐다 - 조종하다Turkish: ipleri elinde bulundurmak - kontrolü altında tutmakUrdu: کنٹرول میں رکھنا - قابو میں کرناIndonesian: nắm trong tay - điều khiển
Example Sentences
She thinks she has him on the string.
basic
The boss has the team on the string.
basic
He likes to have people on the string.
basic
She really has him on the string—he'll do anything she asks.
natural
Ever since the raise, the manager has everyone on the string.
natural
He's charming, but don't let him have you on the string.
natural