holding the reins
Directing the horse
Holding the reins means being in control or command of something.
The image comes from horseback riding, where the person gripping the reins directs the animal.
In figurative use, it describes whoever has authority over a situation, organization, or process: She's been holding the reins at the company since her father retired.
To take the reins is to assume control; to hand over the reins is to transfer it.
- controlAuthority to direct
- in chargeHaving authority over
- taking chargeAssuming leadership or control
- guidanceAdvice for decisions
- leadershipAbility to direct others
tight grip · pulling the strings · calling the shots · direction · command · at the helm · management · steering · stewardship · power · disciplining · back seat · authority · restraint · governance · driver's seat · dominance · iron fist
holding the reinsgoing with the flow
Accepting situations without resistance
drifting · going along for the ride · passive · reactive · hands-off
holding the reinstaking orders
Acting on commands
subordinate · at someone's beck and call · answering to · along for the ride · powerless
hold, holding, holds, holder, holders, holdout, holdover, behold, beholden