attached

no strings (attached)

if there are no strings attached to an offer or arrangement, there is nothing that is unpleasant or not convenient that you have to accept in order to get the advantage from the offer. It's very rare that you get a loan that size with no strings attached. The donation has no strings attached, so the charity is free to use it for whatever purpose it chooses.

See also: string

with strings (attached)

no strings (attached) - if there are no strings attached to an offer or arrangement, there is nothing that is unpleasant or not convenient that you have to accept in order to get the advantage from the offer. Most of their so-called 'special offers' come with strings attached, so beware.

See also: string

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no strings attached

no special demands or limits that you have to accept. The donation has no strings attached, so the charity can use the money for whatever purpose it chooses.

Usage notes: sometimes used in the form with string attached with special demands or limits: Many special offers come with strings attached, so be aware of this before you buy.Hardly ever occurs w/o "attached"; I see no reason to bracket it--SL, 2/03

See also: string