velvet handcuffs

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.
See also: handcuff, velvet
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • golden handcuffs
  • handcuff
  • overdo
  • overdo it
  • overdo it/things
  • be no picnic
  • on the house
  • no picnic
  • what a life
  • what a life!
References in periodicals archive
And when you read the horror stories from Jamie Bulger to the murdered schoolgirl in France and such scandals as the sexual depravities at the Celtic Boys' Club, who can blame any parent who shackles them to their rooms with the velvet handcuffs of ever more expensive and exciting goodies?
NO HIDING PLACE; We've got to help the victims nail perverts