purse strings
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Many filmmakers told me that those who hold the purse strings don’t consider such filmmaking a good investment.
From Salon • May 22, 2026
Basic economy passengers can upgrade when spending is strong, while business-class travelers can trade down to premium economy when purse strings tighten.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026
That’s a precarious model if middle-class Americans have to tighten their purse strings.
From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026
Despite a better-than-feared budget in November, persistent economic and political volatility has left households hesitant to open the purse strings.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 18, 2026
No matter how she screamed and schemed, her husband refused to loosen his purse strings.
From "In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson" by Bette Bao Lord
