Idiom meaning, usage examples, facts

1. Can you get me a job in your father’s company? I know you can do it if you’re willing to pull strings
2. Jane’s parents were influential in politics, but she wanted to make her way on her own. She didn’t like pulling strings to get what she wanted.

The expression originates from the idea of a string puppet or marionette, which can be controlled by pulling on its strings. A person who can pull strings can control a situation and influence others.