with strings attached

ADJECTIVE

conditional

Synonyms

STRONGEST

limited provisional restrictive tentative

WEAK

codicillary contingent depending on fortuitous granted on certain terms guarded iffy incidental inconclusive modified not absolute obscure provisory qualified relative reliant relying on restricted subject to uncertain with grain of salt with reservations

Antonyms

STRONGEST

certain definite

WEAK

independent unconditional unlimited unqualified unrestricted

ADJECTIVE

provisory

Synonyms

WEAK

codicillary contingent depending on fortuitous granted on certain terms guarded iffy incidental inconclusive limited modified not absolute obscure provisional qualified relative reliant relying on restricted restrictive subject to tentative uncertain with grain of salt with reservations

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There is an argument for giving gifts with strings attached — mainly, if you don’t like the strings, don’t accept the gift.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 23, 2026

While Qatari entities have said their motivations include building local human capital and supporting research, the money seems to come with strings attached.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 28, 2026

Barrasso went on to envision an aid package with "strings attached."

From Salon • Jan. 12, 2025

But unlike general social service grants for schooling or health, housing funds typically come with strings attached.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 14, 2023

All these years he’d wanted friends, and now he discovered they came with strings attached.

From "The House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer

with strings attached

Example Sentences

Related Words