# short leash

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/short-leash
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

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

## Examples

- My boss keeps me on a short leash.
- The new manager keeps the team on a short leash, requiring approval for every small decision.
- Despite his years of experience, the board kept the executive on a short leash, demanding detailed reports on every minor expenditure.

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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.