hold the reins
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“I feel like I’m trying to hold the reins on something I can’t really control.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 16, 2026
The 65-year-old, who took office in late 2021, also made clear that he expects to hold the reins in Berlin for some time.
From Seattle Times • Jul. 14, 2023
These delegates are assigned block by block in the system; no one leader may hold the reins for too long.
From Slate • Mar. 18, 2022
A political ally, Htin Kyaw, was placed in the office, allowing Ms. Aung Suu Kyi to essentially hold the reins of power.
From New York Times • May 22, 2016
He asked Ben to hold the reins for a moment as he stood up and hollered up to the bridgetender’s house.
From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy
