Pull strings
Meaning
To use one's personal influence or connections, often discreetly, to achieve a particular outcome or advantage.
Origin
The phrase "pull strings" vividly evokes the image of a puppeteer, unseen yet absolutely in control, manipulating a marionette on stage. This theatrical metaphor became widely popular in the 19th century, drawing directly from the mechanics of puppet shows where an individual could make a lifeless figure dance, walk, or gesture by tugging on the attached threads. By extension, the phrase came to describe a person who secretly influences events or people from behind the scenes, effectively making them dance to their tune without their direct involvement being apparent. It implies a hidden power structure, where the visible actors are merely puppets in a larger, unseen game of influence and manipulation.
Examples
- She knew she'd have to pull strings if she wanted her child to get into that exclusive school.
- The junior executive was surprisingly promoted, leading some to suspect he had someone powerful pulling strings for him.