Take the reins Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/teɪk ði reɪnz/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Idiomatic expression

Definition

To assume control or responsibility for something; to take charge.

Examples

• After the manager’s departure, John had to take the reins and lead the team.
• She decided to take the reins of her career and start her own business.

Synonyms

• Take charge
• Assume control
• Be in command

Antonyms

• Relinquish control
• Abdicate responsibility

Additional Information

When you take the reins, you are taking control of a situation, project, or organization. This idiom is often used in business, leadership, and personal development contexts. It implies a sense of responsibility and authority, and can be a powerful way to assert oneself in a given situation.

In addition to literal meanings, “take the reins” can also be used metaphorically to describe taking control of one’s life, emotions, or circumstances. For example, someone might say “I’m taking the reins of my health” to indicate that they are taking responsibility for their own well-being.

The phrase is thought to have originated from horse-riding, where the reins are the straps used to control the horse. When you take the reins, you are literally taking control of the horse, and by extension, the situation.

Etymology

The phrase “take the reins” is believed to have originated in the 17th century, derived from the literal meaning of taking control of a horse’s reins. Over time, the phrase evolved to include metaphorical uses, such as taking control of a situation or project.

Usage Notes

“Take the reins” can be used in a variety of contexts, including business, leadership, personal development, and everyday conversation. It’s often used to describe taking control of a situation, project, or one’s own life.

Cultural References

The phrase “take the reins” has been used in popular culture, such as in movies, literature, and music. For example, in the movie “The Hunger Games,” the main character Katniss takes the reins of the rebellion against the oppressive government.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Other idiomatic expressions related to “take the reins” include “hold the reins,” “give up the reins,” and “pass the reins.”

Related Words or Phrases

Words and phrases related to “take the reins” include “take charge,” “assume control,” “be in command,” and “have the reins.”

Collocations

Common collocations with “take the reins” include “take the reins of power,” “take the reins of responsibility,” and “take the reins of leadership.”

Frequency of Use

The phrase “take the reins” is moderately frequent in modern language, used in a variety of contexts to describe taking control or responsibility.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings of “take the reins” include “take the renes,” “take the raines,” and “take the reans.”