golden handcuffs
A situation that is undesirable, unenjoyable, or unfulfilling but that provides enough financial security as to make one unwilling or unable to leave. After nearly three years at my mind-numbing job, held back by the golden handcuffs of my salary and benefits, I decided to break away from it all and go live in Japan. I think many adults find themselves in golden handcuffs, especially once they've had kids and bought a house. A: "I don't have any time for my art anymore, but it's not like I can just leave the law firm and give up that paycheck." B: "Sounds like a 'golden handcuffs' sort of situation."
velvet handcuffs
A situation that is undesirable, unenjoyable, or unfulfilling but that provides enough financial security as to make one unwilling or unable to leave. After nearly three years at my mind-numbing job, held back by the velvet handcuffs of my salary and benefits, I decided to break away from it all and go live in Japan.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
golden handcuffs
Financial benefits that an employee will lose upon resigning, as in The company's presented all the middle managers with golden handcuffs, so they can't afford to leave . This slangy business expression dates from the 1970s.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.