harp on the same string
To repeatedly say the same thing.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Please stop harping on the same string about my messy room.”
“He keeps harping on the same string about the budget, even though we already found a solution.”
“The politician continued to harp on the same string throughout the debate, ignoring every question about his actual policy plans.”
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another string to one's bow
Another skill, ability or resource to be used in case of failure.
- 02
apron string
A symbol of the domestic ties binding a male to a female (as a husband to a wife or a son to a mother).
- 03
harp on one string
To dwell on a single subject with disagreeable or wearisome persistence.
- 04
hold the purse strings
To be in control of spending; to have financial power and responsibility.
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loosen the apron strings
To allow greater freedom (to someone); to relax control of (someone).
- 06
loosen the purse strings
To increase spending or allow increased spending; to relax control of spending.
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no strings attached
Without conditions or obligations; without a catch.
- 08
pull strings
To manipulate a situation, especially by asking favours of others; to use one's influence with others to attain a desired goal.
Last updated August 10, 2026