take 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.
The military has ruled Myanmar for most of its post-independence history, before a decade-long democratic thaw saw civilian leader Suu Kyi take the reins.
From Barron's • Mar. 15, 2026
When Sussan Ley made history as the first woman to take the reins of Australia's Liberal Party, she insisted this was a pivotal moment for the party – or what was left of it anyway.
From BBC • Feb. 12, 2026
There’s some reprieve and relief in letting go, allowing someone else to take the reins.
From Salon • Feb. 8, 2026
The Ivy League school has selected Jennifer Mnookin, who has led UW-Madison since 2022, to take the reins at Columbia sometime this year, the person said.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 25, 2026
She drove a four-in-hand on her fourteenth birthday, and her cousin, Mr. Jack, got up on the box beside her and tried to take the reins from her hands.
From "Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier
