have a firm grip on (someone or something)

have a firm grip on (someone or something)

1. Literally, to be seizing someone or something with a very tight grasp. The bouncer had a firm grip on me as he led me out of the club. I had a firm grip on the wheel to keep the boat on course during the storm.
2. To possess tight and complete control over someone or something. Now that I have a firm grip on the business, I can begin steering it to the success I know it can achieve. Heed my warning—you need to have a firm grip on this new recruit. He's got talent, sure, but he's reckless!
See also: firm, grip, have, on
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • keep a firm grip on
  • keep a firm grip on (someone or something)
  • lose (one's) grip on (someone or something)
  • lose one’s grip
  • lose one’s hold
  • lose (one's) hold on (someone or something)
  • lose hold on
  • be on firm ground
  • firm hand on the tiller
  • tiller