Grammar fix
rein in
bring under control (figurative)
To limit, control, or restrain someone's actions, emotions, or spending, especially when they are becoming excessive or out of control.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
The government is trying to rein in public spending to reduce the national debt.
In my opinion, parents should rein in their children's screen time to ensure they develop healthy habits.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: They need to reign in their costs.
Say: They need to rein in their costs.
It's 'rein in' (like a horse's reins), not 'reign' — a very common spelling error.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Rein in' is the natural verb for bringing something under control; 'curtail excessive expenditure' is formal.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
rein in + excess
- spending
- costs
- your temper
- the kids