How Do You Spell SHOESTRING?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈuːstɹɪŋ] (IPA)

The word "shoestring" is spelled with the combination of letters "sh," which represents the voiceless postalveolar fricative sound /ʃ/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The letter "o" is pronounced as the short vowel sound /ʊ/, followed by the letter "s," which represents the voiceless alveolar fricative sound /s/. The second "t" is pronounced as the voiceless alveolar plosive sound /t/. Finally, the word ends with the syllabic nasal sound /ŋ/ represented by the letter "n." Therefore, the IPA transcription of "shoestring" would be /ˈʃʊsˌtɹɪŋ/.

SHOESTRING Meaning and Definition

  1. Shoestring can have several dictionary definitions depending on the context in which it is used. However, the most common definition refers to a thin strip or lace made of leather or fabric that is used to fasten or tie shoes.

    In a financial context, shoestring is often used as an adjective to describe a small or limited budget. It refers to managing or operating something, such as a business, with minimal resources or money. For example, a startup company might operate on a shoestring budget to minimize expenses and maximize profitability.

    Shoestring can also have a metaphorical meaning, used to describe something that is completed or achieved with very limited means or resources. This can refer to a project, task, or even a journey that is accomplished with minimal support or financial backing.

    The term can also be used figuratively to describe something that is done or solved in a simple or basic manner, without any frills or unnecessary complexity. In this sense, it implies a practical and efficient approach that focuses on the essentials.

    Furthermore, "shoestring" can be utilized idiomatically, as in the phrase "on a shoestring." This expression means to do something or manage a situation with very little money or resources, emphasizing the need for careful financial management and creativity.

    Overall, "shoestring" often conveys the idea of simplicity, thriftiness, and resourcefulness in various contexts, highlighting the ability to achieve results or make the most out of limited means.

Common Misspellings for SHOESTRING

Etymology of SHOESTRING

The word "shoestring" has its origins in Middle English. It is derived from the combination of two words: "shoe" and "string".

The word "shoe" traces back to the Old English word "sceōh", which referred to a form of footwear made from leather or other materials that covered the foot. This term eventually evolved into "shoe" in Middle English.

The word "string" comes from the Old English word "streng", which originally meant a rope, cord, or strand. Over time, it came to refer to any long, slender, and flexible material.

When combined, "shoe" and "string" formed the compound word "shoestring". It initially referred to a string or lace used to fasten or tie shoes securely. However, the meaning expanded to include the thin, cord-like material used for shoe laces in modern times.

Idioms with the word SHOESTRING

  • on a shoestring The idiom "on a shoestring" is used to describe doing something with very little money or on a tight budget. It implies that you are being resourceful and making the most out of limited financial resources.
  • shoestring budget The idiom "shoestring budget" refers to a limited amount of money or financial resources available for a particular project, organization, or individual. It implies that the budget is extremely tight, often requiring creative and frugal means in order to make ends meet or accomplish objectives.
  • live on a shoestring The idiom "live on a shoestring" means to survive or maintain a frugal lifestyle with very little money or resources. It suggests that an individual or a household has a limited budget and must carefully manage their expenses to make ends meet.
  • get along (on a shoestring) The idiom "get along (on a shoestring)" means to manage with very little money or resources. It implies living frugally and being able to make ends meet despite financial limitations.

Similar spelling words for SHOESTRING

Plural form of SHOESTRING is SHOESTRINGS

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