# in someone's pocket

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/in-someones-pocket
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Receiving money from, and under the influence of, a person or group of people, with the expectation that a favor or advantage will be proffered in return.

## Examples

- The corrupt official is clearly in the developer's pocket.
- Everyone knows the local politician is in the construction company's pocket, so he always approves their building projects.
- The investigative journalist uncovered evidence that the entire city council was in the pocket of a powerful lobbyist, ensuring that every contract favored his clients.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.