Shoestring Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shoestring

[ˈʃuːˌstrɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

budgeting

A shoestring is a very small amount of money that is available to spend.

Synonyms

limited funds, small amount, tight budget.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
shoestring	Best used informally to describe managing with very little money, often in creative or frugal ways. They started their business on a shoestring. Traveling Europe on a shoestring is challenging but rewarding.
small amount	Best used to indicate an insignificant or insufficient quantity of something, not necessarily money. He contributed a small amount to the charity. She added a small amount of salt to the recipe.
limited funds	Used formally or informally to describe having a small amount of money available, often in the context of budgeting or financial planning. Due to limited funds, we need to prioritize our expenses. With limited funds, they couldn't afford to buy a new car.
tight budget	Best used to describe situations where careful management of money is needed because there isn’t much to spend. We are on a tight budget this month, so we can't go out to eat. Running a household on a tight budget requires careful planning.

Examples of usage

We had to start our company on a shoestring.
Living on a shoestring budget can be challenging.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

fashion

A shoestring is a thin string or lace used to fasten shoes.

Synonyms

lace, shoelace, string.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
shoestring	Typically used to refer to a very tight budget or limited resources. They managed to open the restaurant on a shoestring budget Students often travel Europe on a shoestring
shoelace	Specifically refers to the strings used to tie and secure shoes. My shoelace came undone while I was running He tripped over his shoelace and fell
lace	Commonly used when referring to decorative fabric with intricate patterns, as well as the act of threading or fastening something. She wore a dress with beautiful lace details Could you lace up your shoes before we leave?
string	A general term for a thin piece of material used for tying or fastening, can also refer to a series of things connected together. She tied the package with a piece of string The musician broke a string on his guitar We had a string of successful events last month

Examples of usage

She tied her sneakers with bright red shoestrings.
The boots came with leather shoelaces.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'shoestring'

The term 'shoestring' originated in the early 19th century in the United States. It was originally used to describe a narrow strip of leather used for fastening shoes. Over time, the term evolved to also refer to a very small amount of money or a tight budget. The expression 'on a shoestring' gained popularity during the Great Depression when people had to make ends meet with limited resources.

See also: overshoe, shoe, shoelace, shoemaker, shoer, shoes.