keep a tight rein on

keep a tight rein on (someone or something)

To maintain strict or tight control over someone; to not allow someone very much independence or autonomy. Ever since George nearly lost his life savings in a drunken poker match, his husband has started keeping a tight rein on him. The boss has kept a tight rein on her assistant since she hired her.

See also: keep, on, rein, tight

keep a tight rein on someone or something

 and keep a close rein on someone or something

Fig. to watch and control someone or something diligently. (Alludes to controlling a horse by a tight grip on the reins.) The office manager kept a tight rein on the staff. Mary keeps a close rein on her children.

See also: keep, on, rein, tight

keep a tight rein on

exercise strict control over; allow little freedom to.

See also: keep, on, rein, tight

keep a tight ˈrein on somebody/something

(also keep somebody/something on a tight ˈleash) control somebody/something very carefully; give somebody/something very little freedom: The company must keep a tight rein on spending. ♢ She keeps her children on a tight leash to make sure they don’t get into trouble. OPPOSITE: give/allow somebody/something free/full rein

A leash is used to hold and control a dog, and a rein is used to control a horse.

See also: keep, on, rein, somebody, something, tight