Shoestring: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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?

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