“Holding the reigns” or “holding the reins”: which is correct?
The short answer
The correct phrase is holding the reins, referring to someone who is in control or guiding a situation, similar to how a rider uses reins to guide a horse.
Why people get it wrong
People make this error because reign and rein are homophones, meaning they sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. Reign refers to the period during which a sovereign rules, while rein refers to the straps used to control a horse. The correct expression uses rein as a metaphor for control.
What kind of mistake it is
Spelling/usage error – homophone confusion
Examples with holding the reins
- She is holding the reins of the project and ensuring everything goes smoothly.
- After the CEO’s retirement, the new leader took over, ready to hold the reins.
- As a parent, it’s important to know when to hold the reins and when to let go.
Quick check
She is of the project and ensuring everything goes smoothly.
The correct phrase is holding the reins, referring to someone who is in control or guiding a situation, similar to how a rider uses reins to guide a horse.
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