STUMPERS CCIV

The clues below should suggest a familiar expression, which, when preceded by a certain word, means free and clear.  What is the expression?

KITE
BIKINI
YO-YO
GUITAR
BALLOON

HINT:
The certain word is NO.

Answer: 

STRINGS ATTACHED 

Credit: LA Times Crossword
December 28, 2016
C.C. Burnikel