keep/hold somebody/something in check

hold (someone or something) in check

To limit or restrain someone or something; to keep someone or something from becoming too powerful or influential. We need to come up with provisions to hold the new director in check—otherwise, he'll totally dismantle our department.
See also: check, hold

keep (someone or something) in check

To limit or restrain someone or something. We need to come up with provisions to keep the new director in check—otherwise, he'll totally dismantle our department.
See also: check, keep
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

keep someone or something in check

 and hold someone or something in check
to keep someone or something under control; to restrain someone or something. Hang on to this rope to keep the dog in check. I was so angry I could hardly hold myself in check.
See also: check, keep
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

keep/hold somebody/something in ˈcheck

control somebody/something: The disease is kept in check with drugs. It was difficult to hold their enthusiasm in check.
See also: check, hold, keep, somebody, something
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • be/have done with somebody/something
  • be in line with (someone or something)
  • better of
  • (someone or something) promises well
  • begin with
  • begin with (someone or something)
  • be rough on (someone or something)
  • bird has flown, the
  • beware of
  • beware of (someone or something)