What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bridling
Example
The experienced rider was skilled at bridling the horse, maintaining control with gentle movements. [bridling: verb]
Example
She gently pulled back on the reins, bridling the horse and bringing it to a halt. [bridling: present participle]
reining
Example
The rider expertly reined the horse, guiding it through the obstacle course. [reined: verb]
Example
He applied gentle pressure on the reins, reining the horse in and bringing it to a walk. [reining: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reining is more commonly used than bridling in everyday language. While bridling is specific to the context of horseback riding, reining can also be used metaphorically to describe controlling or guiding other situations or events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bridling and reining?
Both bridling and reining are associated with a formal tone, as they are technical terms used in the equestrian world. However, reining may be slightly more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
