# ride the tiger

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/ride-the-tiger
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To maintain control over something aggressive and dangerous.

## Examples

- He has to ride the tiger to keep his business alive.
- The politician knew that once he started the controversial policy, he had to ride the tiger until the end.
- By accepting the risky investment, she found herself forced to ride the tiger, knowing that any loss of control would lead to total ruin.

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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.