The long meeting was strung out for three hours.
strung out
idiomProlonged in an unnecessary or time-filling manner.
The director strung out the final scene of the movie, making the ending feel slow and unnecessary.
By having the lawyer repeat the same questions, the prosecution strung out the trial until the jury grew visibly impatient.
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another string to one's bow
Another skill, ability or resource to be used in case of failure.
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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).
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harp on one string
To dwell on a single subject with disagreeable or wearisome persistence.
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harp on the same string
To repeatedly say the same thing.
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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).
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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.
Last updated April 17, 2026