The phrase “hold the purse strings” means to have control over the finances or budget of an individual, organization, or household. The person or entity holding the purse strings has the authority to decide how money is spent or allocated.
Examples of Sentences Using the Phrase “Hold the Purse Strings”
- “In our household, my mom holds the purse strings and makes all the financial decisions.”
- “The company’s CFO holds the purse strings, so all major expenses need her approval.”
- “Congress holds the purse strings and decides how the federal budget is allocated.”
- “The charity board holds the purse strings, ensuring every donation is spent wisely.”
What Is the Meaning of Purse Strings in Business?
In business, “purse strings” refers to control over financial resources. The person or department “holding the purse strings” has the authority to allocate funds, approve budgets, and oversee expenditures. For example:
- A CFO (Chief Financial Officer) might hold the purse strings in a corporation.
- Investors or financial committees might hold the purse strings for startups or projects.
- In negotiations, understanding who holds the purse strings is key to accessing funding or approvals.
What Other Areas Do People Use the Phrase?
People use this phrase to describe situations where someone has authority over finances or spending decisions. It’s commonly mentioned:
- In families: When one person manages the household budget.
- In governments: When discussing budget control or funding decisions by legislative bodies.
- In organizations or groups: Referring to those who decide how resources are distributed.
Origin of the Phrase
The phrase originates from the literal practice of securing money in a small purse or pouch, which was closed with strings.
In earlier times, the person who physically controlled the purse strings had control over the money.
Over time, this evolved into a metaphor for financial authority.
The term dates back to at least the 15th century and has been used in various contexts ever since to describe financial decision-making.
Best Hold the Purse Strings Quotes/Captions for Social Media
Looking to update your social media status with the perfect quote? We’ve got you covered! Browse through the options below and pick the one that best matches your theme or mood—whether it’s motivational, funny, relatable, or seasonal!
Motivational
- “The one who holds the purse strings doesn’t just control the money—they shape the future.”
- “Take charge, hold the purse strings, and steer your financial destiny.”
- “True empowerment comes when you hold the purse strings and make decisions that matter.”
Funny
- “Who holds the purse strings? Me—because nobody else knows where the coupons are!”
- “I hold the purse strings, but somehow the money keeps slipping out…”
- “Holding the purse strings is great until everyone asks, ‘Where did all the money go?’”
Relatable
“Adulting is realizing that holding the purse strings means saying no to your own shopping cart.”
“The one holding the purse strings also holds the stress of every unplanned expense.”
“Budgeting: the art of holding the purse strings and still never having enough for coffee.”
Seasonal
- “Holiday season tip: Hold the purse strings tight, or the gift list will hold your wallet hostage!”
- “Winter expenses: when holding the purse strings feels more like holding a snowball that’s melting away.”
- “Spring cleaning isn’t just for closets—sometimes it’s for the purse strings too!”