to rein in

JLPT N5

Words with this Kanji

Usage and Meaning

The character primarily means "to rein in" or "to tighten a rein," originally referring to controlling a horse. It is often used metaphorically to mean "to force or order someone to do something," especially in official or authoritative contexts.

Common Collocations

  • (lē lìng): to order or command someone to do or stop something, often used in legal or official language.
  • (lē zhù): to tighten or hold firmly, often physically restraining.

Usage Notes

When used in contexts like (ordered to suspend duties), it implies a formal or authoritative command, often by police or government officials. In contrast, the literal sense of physically reining in a horse is more concrete and less formal.

Confusions

Do not confuse with similar-sounding words like (lè, meaning happy) or (le, a particle). is more formal and often appears in legal or official documents or in contexts involving control or restraint.

Example Sentences

When riding a horse, you need to rein in the horse with the bridle.

He was ordered to suspend his duties and undergo investigation.

The police ordered the store to close at 10 p.m.