What does the phrasal verb “rein in” mean?

What are the definitions of “rein in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Control someone or something to stop them causing more trouble.

  They had to REIN the minister IN after her dreadful performance on TV.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “rein in”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb rein in is to control or limit someone or something to prevent further problems or trouble. It is often used when talking about controlling a situation or a person's behavior.

What are the different verb forms of “rein in”?

Root Verb	rein in
Third Person Singular Present	reins in
Present Participle	reining in
Simple Past	reined in
Past Participle	reined in

Example

The teacher had to rein in the unruly students.

Example

She reins in her spending to save money.

Example

The government is reining in the inflation rate.

Example

He reined in his anger before it got out of control.

Example

The excessive noise was reined in after the neighbors complained.

What kind of phrasal verb is “rein in”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“rein in” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

The manager reined in the project's scope.

Example

She reined her emotions in during the meeting.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“rein in” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

The manager reined in the project's scope.

Example

She reined her emotions in during the meeting.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “rein in”?

Rein in spending

Limit or control the amount of money spent.

Example

To save for a vacation, they decided to rein in their spending on non-essential items.

Rein in emotions

Control or suppress strong emotions, such as anger or excitement.

Example

During the heated debate, he had to rein in his emotions to stay calm and focused.

Rein in expectations

Lower or manage expectations to avoid disappointment or unrealistic goals.

Example

The coach reined in the team's expectations, reminding them that winning isn't everything.

Good things to know

Does “rein in” have an informal or formal tone?

Rein in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “rein in”?

Synonyms

• control
• restrict
• limit
• curb
• tame
• check
• contain
• hold back

Antonyms

• release
• free
• unleash
• encourage
• allow
• permit
• let go