pull some strings

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pull some strings" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
You can use it to describe when someone uses their influence to get something to happen, or to get special favors. For example, you could say, "My boss was able to pull some strings and get me the days off I wanted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

I can pull some strings and make that happen.

The New Yorker

"Milosevic can pull some strings," Mr. Tijanic said.

The New York Times

Employees are hoping that Mr. Obama, too, will pull some strings for them.

The New York Times

"I had to pull some strings to get here, believe it or not," Mr. Dippolito said.

The New York Times

"We're at the stage where you still have to pull some strings, but in four or five years...'...'..

The New York Times

Than Shwe would then ease into an honorary position either as patron of the ruling party or the army, from where he could pull some strings.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

He had pulled some strings to get a copy of the sold-out game Trivial Pursuit.

The New York Times

Ms. Stout pulled some strings and got Ms. Zahani a private tour of ground zero.

The New York Times

I pulled some strings with a ski shop here to open early to put the bindings on.

The New York Times - Travel

She also pulled some strings to get the county's Department of Public Works to replace three roofs at the village.

The New York Times

He grew up in Dallas and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School at 15. "My mother was a teacher, so she pulled some strings," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In professional contexts, it's often better to imply rather than explicitly state that you are "pulling some strings". Use phrases like "I'll see what I can do" or "I'll explore some options".

Common error

Avoid exaggerating your ability to "pull some strings". Promising more than you can deliver can damage your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pull some strings" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of leveraging personal influence or connections to achieve a desired outcome. It implies using one's network or position to obtain a favor or advantage. According to Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pull some strings" is a common idiomatic phrase that means to use your influence or connections to get something done. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in a variety of contexts, primarily in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, one should be mindful of potential negative connotations associated with unfair or unethical use of influence. Related phrases include "exert influence", "use connections", and "call in a favor". When writing, be aware of the ethical implications, avoid overstating your influence, and consider using more subtle phrasing in professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pull strings

A shortened, less descriptive version of the original phrase.

use connections

Emphasizes leveraging personal relationships for an advantage.

leverage relationships

Similar to 'use connections' but suggests a more strategic approach.

exert influence

Focuses on the act of using one's power or sway to affect a situation.

wield influence

Implies a more overt and perhaps forceful application of power.

call in a favor

Highlights the act of requesting assistance based on a previous good deed.

know the right people

Highlights the importance of having connections with influential individuals.

use one's weight

Suggests leveraging authority or importance to get something done.

have an in

Indicates having a special advantage or connection within a certain context.

work the system

Implies navigating bureaucratic or social structures to gain an advantage.

FAQs

How can I use "pull some strings" in a sentence?

You can use "pull some strings" to indicate using personal influence or connections to get something done. For example, "I might be able to "pull some strings" to get you an interview."

What does "pull some strings" actually mean?

"Pull some strings" means to use your influence or connections to get something done, often something that would otherwise be difficult or impossible.

Are there any negative connotations with using "pull some strings"?

Yes, "pull some strings" can sometimes have negative connotations, implying that someone is using their power unfairly or unethically to gain an advantage. Alternatives like "use connections" or "call in a favor" might be more appropriate depending on the context.

Is it better to say "pulled some strings" or "pull some strings"?

The correct tense depends on the context. "Pulled some strings" indicates that the action has already happened, while "pull some strings" suggests a future or hypothetical action. For example, "He "pulled some strings" to get his daughter into the school" versus "I'll "pull some strings" if I can."