on a tight leash
Under (someone's) strict control; not allowed (by someone) to have very much independence or autonomy. Ever since George nearly lost his life savings in a drunken poker match, his husband started keeping him on a tight leash. Everyone feels like they're on a tight leash at the office ever since that new manager took over.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
on a tight leash
1. Lit. [of an animal] on a leash, held tightly and close to its owner. I keep my dog on a tight leash so it won't bother people.
2. Fig. under very careful control. My father keeps my brother on a tight leash. We can't do much around here. The boss has us all on a tight leash.
3. Sl. addicted to some drug. Wilbur is on a tight leash. He has to have the stuff regularly. Gert is kept on a tight leash by her habit.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
on a tight leash
1. mod. under very careful control. We can’t do much around here. The boss has us all on a tight leash.
2. mod. addicted to some drug. Wilmer is on a tight leash. He has to have the stuff regularly.
McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions Copyright © 2006 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.