One of the mysteries of the English language finally explained.
Synonyms of pull the strings in English:
pull the strings
See definition of pull the strings
phrase
1‘these are the people that pull the strings behind the scenes’
SYNONYMS
manage, direct, control, operate, regulate, conduct, handle, run, orchestrate, organize, supervise, superintend, oversee, preside over, boss, be the boss of, govern, rule, administer, lead, head, guide, steer, pilot
exercise control over, be in control of, be in charge of, be in command of, take care of, look after, be responsible for, be at the helm of, hold sway over
head up, call the shots, call the tune, run the show, be in the driving seat, be in the saddle