strings attached

English

Etymology

Likely by analogy with no strings attached.

Pronunciation

• Audio (AU):

  (file)

Noun

strings attached

1. plural of string attached

1. (idiomatic) Unstated or downplayed catches, limitations, caveats, restrictions, or requirements.

   They were advertising free television sets, but there were a lot of strings attached.

Usage notes

• This phrase is primarily found as part of no strings attached.