to control, limit, or hold back something
to stop something from going too far
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
to bring something under control or keep it within limits
"The central bank acted quickly to rein in inflation."
The government is under pressure to rein in public spending.
— Common news and political reporting formula
to control your own feelings, behavior, or impulses
"She had to rein in her frustration during the interview."
to pull in a horse's reins to make it slow down or stop
to stop something from going too far
Originally from controlling a horse with reins. Commonly used for spending, emotions, growth, or power.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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