free rein

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.

“One of the things I knew going into the project is that we weren’t going to have free rein access to them at every minute, every second of their time in Los Angeles,” he said.

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2026

Born in 1827, Stanley was the eldest of 10 children given free rein to develop their own thoughts and beliefs.

From BBC • Feb. 15, 2026

“Policy permanency is a more effective driver of long-term economic growth, but we’ll see. She is a political rock star in Japan and will have free rein for now.”

From Barron's • Feb. 9, 2026

Sephora gave shoppers free rein to schmear on lipstick and play with eye shadow.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 8, 2025

Mr. Peale had given him a free rein to wander and enjoy himself after being cooped up in the house.

From "Fever 1793" by Laurie Halse Anderson