short leash

English

Pronunciation

• Audio (General Australian):

  (file)

Noun

short leash (plural short leashes)

1. (idiomatic) A strict set of rules, or great scrutiny or oversight which limit one's freedom of action.

   The employee was put on probation after her latest mistakes and given a short leash.

   Their supervisors keep the workers on a short leash.

See also

• give 'em enough rope