The company has relied on government support, but the government is now threatening to 'cut the apron strings'. [=to stop providing support]
He's generous, but there are always 'strings attached'. [=he always expects something in return for what he gives to people]
He really loved her but she was just 'stringing' him 'along'. [=making him think that she loved him so she could use him]
(..) - Thank you. - I didn't do anything, Hank. - Yeah, he couldn't get it up. I did everything I could. It was like nibbling on a piece of string cheese. It's really making me question my chosen career path. No, no, no, it's not you. But you really should consider going back to law school. (..)2014 TvShow: Californication Title: Grace Season: 7 Episode 12