get one's claws into
To have a controlling influence over.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“She really wants to get her claws into that new project.”
“The new manager is trying to get her claws into the department by changing all the rules.”
“Once the ambitious consultant got her claws into the company, she systematically replaced the entire board of directors to ensure her total control.”
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abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
- 02
ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
- 03
act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
- 04
act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
- 05
afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
- 06
air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
- 07
air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
- 08
albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.
Last updated August 10, 2026