holds the reins
Has the power
To hold the reins is to be in control or command of a situation, organization, or endeavor.
The image comes from horsemanship—whoever grips the reins directs the animal.
She holds the reins at the company now that her father has retired.
After the coup, the military held the reins of power.
Often appears as take the reins (assume control) or hand over the reins (transfer authority).
- heldKept in grasp
- steerDirect movement or castrated bull
- take the wheelAssume driving duties
- decideReach a conclusion
- overseeManage and direct
administer · stewardship · leader · accountability · charge · coordinate · captain · governor · duty · dominion · bridle · tight grip · choose · director · obligation · determine · guide · regulate
holds the reinssubordinate
One lower in rank
takes orders · answers to · at someone's beck and call · obeys · puppet
holds the reinsalong for the ride
Present without active participation
goes with the flow · at the mercy of · swept up · passive · helpless
holds the reinsgoes along
Accepts or cooperates
along for the ride · passive · drifts · goes with the flow · hands-off
hold, holds, holding, holder, holders, holdout, holdover, behold, beholden