be on a short leash

be on a short leash

To be strictly controlled (by someone); to not be allowed very much independence or autonomy. George has been on a short leash with his husband ever since he gambled away their life savings at a poker match. Everyone feels like they're on a short leash at the office ever since that new manager took over. I knew Gloria's assistant would be on a short leash, that's why I didn't apply for the job!

See also: leash, on, short

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.