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Pull strings

verb

Definitions

Verb
  1. 1
    To manipulate a situation, especially by asking favours of others; to use one's influence with others to attain a desired goal. idiomatic, intransitive

    "He has the job not because of talent, but because his dad pulled strings with the boss."

  2. 2
    influence or control shrewdly or deviously wordnet
  3. 3
    To control a person, organization, or situation by operating behind the scenes, as a puppeteer controls a marionette. idiomatic, intransitive, often

    "We know who pulls the strings around here."

Etymology

Suggesting a puppet show, where characters are moved by pulling attached strings.

See also for "pull strings"

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