What does the idiom "on a shoe string" mean?

The expression on a shoe string is one of the idioms that often finds a place in our literature and enriches our language. However, its meaning is not fully understood, so it is sometimes used in the wrong situations. Please review the explanation carefully for the correct use of the on a shoe string idiom.

Meaning of "on a shoe string"

Meaning

The phrase 'on a shoestring' is a common idiom that is used to describe someone who is trying to accomplish something with very limited resources or funds. It usually refers to those who are either living on a limited budget or are attempting to make something out of nothing without any form of financial support. This phrase is often used in reference to entrepreneurial endeavors, but it can also refer to any kind of project that requires an individual to make do with what they have.

Etymology

The phrase 'on a shoestring' originated in the late 1800s in the United States. At the time, the phrase was often used to describe the resourcefulness of someone who was trying to launch a business without a lot of financial backing. Those individuals who were trying to make a go of it on their own were said to be "trying to make it on a shoestring." The phrase is a reference to the shoestrings of the time, which were commonly used to bind shoes together. Thus, the phrase implies that someone is attempting to survive “on a shoestring budget,” tying their finances together as tightly and efficiently as possible.

Usage

Today the phrase 'on a shoestring' is still used to refer to an individual who is trying to accomplish something with limited funds or resources. It is often used in reference to entrepreneurs who are attempting to launch a business without any financial backing, but it can also be used to refer to a wide variety of projects. It is typically used in a positive sense, as a testament to someone’s resourcefulness and ability to make something out of nothing.

Example Sentences

  • John was able to build a successful business on a shoestring budget.
  • After losing their jobs, the couple decided to make it work by living on a shoestring.
  • Their project was funded on a shoestring, so they had to get creative with their resources.

The meanings of the words in the "on a shoe string" idiom

The power of idioms transcends languages!

"Putting the cart before the horse" is an English idiom that means doing things in the wrong order. In Russian, the similar idiom is "Кладёт колесо впереди лошади," which translates to "Putting the cart before the horse." This idiom emphasizes the idea that doing things in the wrong order can lead to confusion and problems down the line.

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