purse string

The literal sense refers to the physical drawstring of a pouch, while the figurative sense is almost exclusively used in the plural as purse strings. In this metaphorical context, the term evokes the image of a tight grip on a bag to prevent money from escaping, symbolizing strict financial control or austerity.

Commonly paired with verbs like tighten or loosen, the phrase describes the act of restricting or increasing spending. It is frequently used in political or corporate contexts to describe budgetary constraints, carrying a connotation of discipline or frugality rather than simple poverty.