loosen the apron strings: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘loosen the apron strings’ mean?
When someone "loosens the apron strings," it means they are allowing someone who is dependent on them to become more independent and self-reliant.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "turn loose" means to release or set someone or something free, allowing them to act or move without constraint or control.
The idiom "rub off on" means to influence or have an impact on someone, typically in terms of their behavior, attitude, or habits.
The idiom "ripen up" means to become ready or suitable for a particular situation or purpose, often implying the idea of reaching a desired level of maturity or readiness.
The idiom "put one's pants on one leg at a time" means that someone is just an ordinary person, emphasizing equality and normalcy.
The idiom "pull the ladder up behind oneself" means to remove or deny opportunities or assistance for others once one has succeeded or achieved a certain position or goal.
When someone "pulls oneself up by one's bootstraps," it means they are achieving success or improving their situation through their own efforts, without any external help.
The idiom "pull oneself together" means to regain control of one's emotions or behavior after being upset, distracted, or disorganized. It implies the need to gather one's thoughts or compose oneself in order to handle a difficult or challenging situation.
The idiom "pull away" means to move backwards, leave or break free from a situation or person. It often implies a sudden or forceful action that creates distance or separation.
The idiom "make yourself at home" means to feel relaxed and comfortable in someone else's space, as if it were your own.
Apron Strings Untied
One related idiom that shares a similar meaning to "loosen the apron strings" is "loosen the purse strings." This expression refers to the act of becoming more generous with money, specifically in terms of spending or providing financial support. It implies a loosening of control or restrictions over one's finances, allowing for a greater level of freedom or flexibility in spending.
Another related idiom is "apron string," which represents the figurative ties or bonds between a parent or caregiver and a child. It symbolizes a close relationship and a strong sense of dependence or attachment. In the context of "loosen the apron strings," the idiom "apron string" emphasizes the idea of granting more independence and freedom to someone who has been closely tied or dependent on another.
One variation of the idiom "apron string" is "apron-string hold," which refers to a situation in which someone is under the close control or influence of another person, particularly a parent or guardian. The phrase suggests a tight grip or control exerted over someone, inhibiting their freedom or independence. "Loosen the apron strings" can be seen as the opposite of an "apron-string hold," as it implies a release or loosening of this control.
Similarly, the idiom "turn loose" conveys the idea of setting someone free or allowing them to act independently. It signifies a release or detachment from a controlling or restrictive influence. "Loosen the apron strings" can be seen as a way of "turning loose" someone who has been tightly controlled or guided, granting them more freedom and independence.
Finally, the idiom "cut loose" refers to separating oneself from a controlling or inhibiting influence. It implies breaking free from constraints or restrictions and embracing greater freedom. In the context of "loosen the apron strings," "cut loose" emphasizes a more drastic or complete release from dependency, allowing someone to establish their independence fully.
The idiom "loosen the apron strings" represents the act of granting more freedom or independence to someone, particularly a child or dependent individual. It can be related to other idioms such as "loosen the purse strings," "apron string," "apron-string hold," "turn loose," and "cut loose," which all emphasize the idea of releasing or granting more autonomy and independence. These idioms capture the concept of transitioning from a dependent state to a more independent one, allowing someone to become more self-reliant.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "loosen the apron strings" can be used in a sentence:
- Mary's parents finally decided to loosen the apron strings and allow her to study abroad.
- As the new manager, Dave felt the need to loosen the apron strings a little and give his employees more independence.
- After years of sheltering her children, Sara realized it was time to loosen the apron strings and let them make their own decisions.
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