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general::
Phrase(s): keep a firm grip on someone or something [and] keep a tight grip on someone or something
1. Lit. to hold on to someone or something tightly. • As they approached the edge, Sally kept a firm grip on little Timmy. • She kept a tight grip on him. • Keep a firm grip on my hand as we cross the street. 2. Fig. to keep someone or something under firm control. • The manager keeps a firm grip on all the employees. • I try to keep a firm grip on all the accounts.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs