On a shoestring
Meaning
To operate or manage something with very limited financial resources.
Origin
Imagine a desperate entrepreneur or household in the early 20th century, counting every penny. What's the absolute cheapest thing you could buy? A shoestring. This item, so fundamental yet so inexpensive, became the benchmark for minimal expenditure. To live or operate "on a shoestring" meant to cut costs to the absolute bone, to stretch every dime as thin as a lace. It painted a vivid picture of making do with the barest essentials, much like a humble shoestring holds a shoe together with surprising strength despite its low cost.
Examples
- The startup managed to develop its first product on a shoestring budget, relying heavily on volunteer help.
- We planned our entire cross-country road trip on a shoestring, packing our own food and staying in inexpensive motels.