What does “Keep on a short leash” mean?

"Keep on a short leash" means to closely monitor or control someone or something.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The new employee is being kept on a short leash until they prove themselves.

Example

After the incident, the company decided to keep the project on a short leash to avoid any further issues.

Example

The parents kept their teenager on a short leash to ensure they stayed out of trouble

Is “Keep on a short leash” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Keep on a short leash” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Keep on a short leash” effectively in context?

You can use "Keep on a Short Leash" to describe closely monitoring or controlling someone or something. It implies a level of restriction or limitation. For example, if you have a new employee who needs to prove themselves, you might say, 'The new employee is being "kept on a short leash" until they demonstrate their abilities.'

1Work
After the incident, the company decided to keep the project on a short leash to avoid any further issues.
2Parenting
The parents kept their teenager on a short leash to ensure they stayed out of trouble.
3Relationships
She decided to keep her partner on a short leash after discovering their infidelity.

Similar phrases to “Keep on a short leash”:

Keep tabs on

To monitor or keep track of someone or something

Example

He always keeps tabs on his employees' progress.

Watch like a hawk

To closely observe or monitor someone or something

Example

The security guard watched the surveillance cameras like a hawk.

Micromanage

To excessively control or monitor every small detail of a person or project

Example

The boss tends to micromanage his employees' work.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Keep on a short leash” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Keep on a Short Leash" is unknown.

Is “Keep on a short leash” common in everyday conversation?

"Keep on a Short Leash" is a moderately common idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe situations where someone or something is closely monitored or controlled.

What tone does “Keep on a short leash” have?

"Keep on a Short Leash" conveys a tone of control and restriction. It suggests a level of caution and vigilance in managing a person or situation.

Can “Keep on a short leash” be used in informal and formal settings?

"Keep on a Short Leash" is more commonly used in informal settings, such as casual conversations or discussions among friends and family. It may not be as frequently used in formal or professional contexts.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The manager decided to keep the new employee on a short leash.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "keep on a short leash"!' to imply the need for close monitoring or control.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

keep a close eye on
monitor closely
exercise tight control over
have a tight grip on
maintain strict supervision of

Antonyms

give freedom
loosen the reins
let go
grant autonomy
release control