have a tight rein on (someone or something)

have a tight rein on (someone or something)

To maintain strict or tight control over someone or something; to not allow someone or something very much independence or autonomy. Ever since George lost most of their life savings in a drunken poker match, Dana has had a tight rein on the family finances. The boss has had a tight rein on her assistant ever since she first hired him.

See also: have, on, rein, tight

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