have (someone or something) by the tail
have (someone or something) by the tail
To be in complete control of someone or something; to be in a situation in which one's success is likely. Primarily heard in US. Any time my little brother wants to tattle on me, I just threaten to tell mom about the vase he broke—I've sure got him by the tail now! I can't wait to get my grades back—I studied so hard that I had my exams by the tail!
See also: by, have, tail
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
- be replaced by (someone or something)
- be replaced with (someone or something)
- (one's) bearings
- be remembered as (something)
- be remembered as/for something
- (one's) true colours
- better (to be) safe than sorry
- better safe than sorry
- at (one's) doorstep
- at doorstep