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Showing results for take the reins.

take the reins

VERB
dictate
Synonyms
STRONGEST
govern guide impose lay down prescribe
STRONG
bid bulldoze charge control decree direct enjoin instruct lead manage ordain order pronounce regiment rule set
WEAK
call the play call the shots call the tune lay down the law put foot down read the riot act walk heavy
Antonyms
STRONG
disallow mismanage
WEAK
ask implore request
VERB
direct
Synonyms
STRONGEST
advise conduct control guide handle keep lead operate run supervise
STRONG
administer boss dispose dominate govern influence ordain quarterback regulate rule shepherd superintend
WEAK
be in the driver's seat call the shots carry on control the affairs of have the say head up preside over run the show run things
Antonyms
STRONGEST
abandon give up leave let go neglect obey serve
STRONG
follow mismanage submit surrender yield
WEAK
diverge misdirect misguide mislead
VERB
steer
Synonyms
STRONGEST
drive escort govern herd shepherd
STRONG
beacon captain conduct control helm lead pilot point route run see show skipper
WEAK
be in the driver's seat head for run things take over take the helm

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.

However, a lack of head coach opportunities in England has led him back to Italy - where he played towards the end of his career with Roma - to take the reins at Cesena.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

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

Eoin Tonge will take the reins of Primark on a permanent basis at a time when the retailer faces sluggish sales.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 5, 2026

There’s some reprieve and relief in letting go, allowing someone else to take the reins.

From Salon • Feb. 8, 2026

Theon reached around her to take the reins.

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin