The spelling of the word "more shoestring" can be tricky, especially for non-native English speakers. The correct pronunciation of the word is /mɔːʃuːstrɪŋ/, with a long vowel sound in the first syllable and a short vowel sound in the second syllable. The word refers to something that is done or made with minimal resources, often implying a cheap or makeshift solution. This term is commonly used in business or finance to describe a budget approach, but can also be used more colloquially to describe someone's lifestyle or DIY projects.
"More shoestring" is a colloquial expression that refers to a situation or condition where there is even less resources or funding available than before. It is used to describe a state of further financial constraints or scarcity, implying that the available resources are already limited or insufficient, and the situation has worsened.
The term "shoestring" itself is derived from the phrase "on a shoestring" which means to operate with very little money or to work with minimal financial resources. It commonly suggests managing on a tight budget or making do with limited means.
When the term "more shoestring" is used, it emphasizes an exacerbation of the existing financial constraints. It implies that the available resources have decreased further, making it even more challenging to meet the necessary requirements. This phrase may often be used in business or personal contexts to describe a financial situation that has become more difficult or strained.
For example, one may say "After the unexpected repairs, our budget was already on a shoestring, but now it's even more shoestring." This indicates that the financial resources were already extremely limited, but due to the additional unforeseen expenses, the situation has worsened, making the available funds even scarcer.
In summary, "more shoestring" refers to a condition of increased financial constraints or limited resources, further worsening an already challenging situation.
The term more shoestring does not have a clear etymology as it appears to be a combination of two separate words that don't typically go together in English. More commonly denotes an increased quantity or degree, while shoestring usually refers to a thin string or lace used to tie shoes. Without a specific context or established usage, it is difficult to provide a definitive origin for the phrase more shoestring.