Free Rein vs Free Reign
What’s the difference between them?
Free Rein
Meaning:
The phrase 'free rein' is an idiom that means to give someone unrestricted authority or liberty to act as they choose.
Examples:
1. The boss gave me free rein to create something new.
2. The teacher gave the student free rein to express her opinion.
3. After years of hard work, I felt I had earned free rein to make the decisions.
Free Reign
Meaning:
Common misspelling of 'free rein.'
Examples:
no examples
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Free Rein
1. Unconstrained
2. Open Authority
3. Unbridled Liberty
4. Unrestricted Control
5. Boundless Autonomy
1. Restraint
2. Control
3. Restriction
4. Regulation
5. Close Supervision
Free Reign
This word doesn't exist, so there are no synonyms for it.
This word doesn't exist, so there are no antonyms for it.
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Free Rein", "Free Reign".
1. 'Free rein' is a noun phrase that means the freedom to act or make decisions with few or no restrictions.
2. 'Free reign' is not a phrase and should be avoided.
3. You can use the following mnemonic phrase: 'Free rein gives you freedom, while free reign makes you wrong.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
The phrase 'free rein' should be used to indicate that someone has been granted independence and autonomy to make their own decisions. It can also be used to describe an environment of unrestricted creativity or innovation.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
The phrase 'free reign' is incorrect and shouldn't be used in any context.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, these words have similar pronunciation, so you have pay attention to the correct spelling.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake people make when using these words is confusing the phrase 'free rein' with 'free reign'. Remember that the only correct variant is 'free rein' without 'g' at the end of the word.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. The new CEO was given ________ to implement any changes he wanted.
2. She gave her children ________ to choose whatever activity they wanted.
3. We are giving the team ________ to come up with a creative solution.
4. The government allowed the dictator ________ over the country.
5. I gave myself ________ to work on the project as I wished.
6. The new policy gives managers ________ to make decisions without interference.
1. free rein
Explanation: free rein is the most appropriate phrase to use here because it is an idiom meaning freedom to do what one wants without interference.
2. Free Rein
Explanation: Free rein is the most appropriate phrase to use here because it is an idiom meaning a lack of control or restraint.
3. free rein
Explanation: free rein is the most appropriate phrase to use here because it is an idiom meaning absolute authority or power.
4. free rein
Explanation: free rein is the most appropriate phrase to use here because it is an idiom meaning the authority to make decisions and act without any restrictions or limitations.
5. Free Rein
Explanation: Free rein is the most appropriate phrase to use here because it is an idiom meaning the freedom to do as one pleases.
6. free rein
Explanation: free rein is the most appropriate phrase to use here because it is an idiom meaning the authority to make decisions and act without any restrictions or limitations.
Get a gift by subscribing to our newsletter!
Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.