purse strings

NOUN

monetary power

Synonyms

WEAK

almighty dollar financial control money belt money power power of the purse wallet

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.

That’s a precarious model if middle-class Americans have to tighten their purse strings.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026

Medicare Advantage has been adjusting to tighter government purse strings for some time.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 28, 2026

The broadcast host said that while people have tightened their purse strings in China, they will still be willing to spend on certain things and experiences.

From Barron's • Nov. 14, 2025

Shoppers in Los Angeles are turning to more affordable brands, seeking deals and making their own presents to save money this holiday season, as many tighten their purse strings in anticipation of a weak economy.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 13, 2025

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