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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.
golden handcuffs
financial arrangements given by a company to an important employee in order to influence them to stay with the company Share options are offered to top executives as golden handcuffs.
golden handcuffs
Financial benefits that an employee will lose upon resigning, as in The company's presented all the middle managers with golden handcuffs, so they can't afford to leave . This slangy business expression dates from the 1970s.
golden handcuffs
n. monetary inducements to stay on the job. (see also
golden parachute.)
The company provided a variety of golden handcuffs to keep its execs happy through a takeover.