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
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
Using the bully pulpit might prod other policymakers, who hold the reins on everything from education to immigration, into action.
From New York Times • Aug. 2, 2019
Across the way, it’s selfies galore with the hops harvest-festival mural on Starbucks’ rear; a couple women pretend to hold the reins of the painted horses, and from here, with a beer, it looks picture-perfect.
From Seattle Times • Sep. 27, 2018
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
