Phrase guide

pull the reins in on something

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To restrict, curtail, curb; to slow down or reduce.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • 1989 July 24, Compnies still backing the efforts of net managers, editorial in Network World, page 28, It's anyone's guess whether Union Carbide Industrial Gases will ever pull the reins in on network projects in the face of slow business.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Metaphor, referring to the control of a horse.