reins in
Puts limits on
Reins in means to restrain, check, or slow down.
The image comes from horseback riding—pulling back on the reins to control a horse's pace or direction.
The phrase applies to anything that needs curbing: The new regulations rein in corporate excess.
You can rein in spending, emotions, or an overeager employee.
Sometimes misspelled "reigns in."
- restrainsHolds back or controls
- leashAnimal restraint cord
- self-controlAbility to restrain impulses
- bridleEquine control harness
- tetherFastening cord for animals
command · takes control · harness · halter · composure · discipline · temperance · yoke · fetter · curb · suppression · containment · moderation · hold back · holds back · regulation · inhibition · oversight
- holds backrestrains, withholds, suppresses, represses, inhibits
reins inunleashes
Releases from restraint
lets loose · releases · sets free · frees · unshackles
reins inramps up
Increases activity or intensity
amplifies · intensifies · escalates · accelerates · stokes