free rein

noun

1. unhampered freedom of movement, choice, or action:

   Students have free rein to choose their own class schedules.

Word History and Origins

Origin of free rein¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Idioms and Phrases

see free hand .

Example Sentences

It gave students free rein to work at their own level, avoid boredom and show off their talents.

From Los Angeles Times

He has promised to abandon U.S. allies, including Ukraine, and give Israel free rein to, as he told Benjamin Netanyahu last month, “do what you have to do.”

From Los Angeles Times

As vice president, Vance would have free rein to shape federal policy within a Trump administration.

From Salon

But a father or husband has free rein to dispose of his female property as he will.

From Salon

Trump might very well want to give Musk free rein too and, if so, who's going to stop him?

From Salon