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
And for one afternoon — convinced people he was the right choice to hold the reins.
From Seattle Times • Mar. 22, 2017
He practiced on the sawhorse how he would hold the reins in his left hand and a hat in his right hand.
From "The Red Pony" by John Steinbeck
