tight grip

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.

Dealers have long held a tight grip on car sales, but cracks are beginning to show.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 29, 2026

But Iranians say security forces are using fear to keep a tight grip on the streets.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

In Tehran, the war has emptied the usually traffic-jammed streets but residents told AFP that security forces are keeping a tight grip on the population.

From Barron's • Mar. 6, 2026

The billionaire Cox family, descendants of an Ohio press baron who bought his first newspaper in 1898, began acquiring cable systems in 1962 and has since held them with a tight grip.

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2025

Maria had a tight grip on Fani to keep her from swaying.

From "The House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer