keep a close rein on (someone or something)

keep a close rein on (someone or something)

To maintain strict or tight control over someone or something; to not allow someone or something to proceed or develop unchecked. Ever since George nearly lost his life savings in a drunken poker match, his wife has started keeping a close rein on him. The boss has kept a close rein on her assistant since she hired her. We try to keep a close rein on our expenditures, but that's not always possible.
See also: close, keep, on, rein
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • better of
  • be/have done with somebody/something
  • be in line with (someone or something)
  • (someone or something) promises well
  • bird has flown, the
  • begin with
  • begin with (someone or something)
  • beware of
  • beware of (someone or something)
  • be rough on (someone or something)