Has Another String to Bow?

If someone has more than one string to their bow, they have more than one ability or thing they can use if the first one they try is not successful.

What does it mean to have another string to your bow?

British. : to have more than one idea, skill, plan, etc., to use if it is needed That didn't fix the problem, but I have more than one string to my bow.

Can I have another string to one's bow?

If you have another string to your bow, you have an extra skill that you can use if you do not succeed using your main skill. In this expression, `bow' is pronounced with the same vowel sound as the word `show'. Looking for another string to his bow, he turned to art and design, for which he had always shown a talent.