Free Rein or Free Reign – Actual Usage and Difference

Are you a native or non-native English writer? If yes, you might be familiar with the fact that this language is so broad. It is rich with words, idioms, and expressions that sometimes create confusion for the readers. Among them, homophones stand out as the most confusing ones.

Homophones refer to a single word or a combination of more than one word that sounds alike but has different meanings, spellings, and origins. Such words usually exist in pairs. “free rein” and “free reign” are also one of those pairs that mostly create ambiguity for the readers.

Do you also get confused about which phrase to use and which to avoid? If yes, there is no need to worry. In this article, we will discuss how these phrases are different from each other. Also, we will guide you on how to correctly use them.

However, before delving into this debate, let’s first know why understanding the right use of these phrases is essential. So, make sure you read this article till the end. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in. 

Why Is Precise Use Of Language Essential?

Whether you write content for websites, academic tasks, or business purposes, language precision holds key importance. The words or phrases you use to convey your message define the integrity of your communication. The inappropriate use of phrases reflects your lack of professionalism.

Not only this, but it also creates obstacles for readers in understanding the meanings accurately. Providing ambiguous information with perplexing terms like “free rein” and “free reign” can cost you credibility loss and no communication results.  

Consequently, the time and energy invested in writing that piece of information go in vain. That’s why it is important to take care of correctness in the use of language.   

Origin And Meaning of “Free Rein”

Merriam-Webster states that the term “free rein” comes from the jargon of horseback riding, which refers to the act of holding reins. Here, “reins” mean narrow leather straps that are usually used to direct the movement of a horse.

When the word “free” gets attached to the word “reins,” this combination conveys the meaning of losing straps so that the horse can move freely. The figurative interpretation of this phrase is to leave someone free to perform an action.

In other words, “free reins” implies providing freedom to someone to execute an action at their own pace, just like one gives liberty to a horse. This means that this phrase can be used in all places where you want to express a sense of independence. 

Origin And Meaning Of “Free Reign”

“Free reign,” on the other hand, is a mistaken variant of “free rein.” It arises from the word “reign,” which usually implies the period in which a sovereign rules. The word “free” combined with “reign” entails the meaning of ruling without any constraints.

Since governing without restriction doesn’t make sense both historically and contextually, it clearly indicates that the phrase “free reign” is grammatically incorrect. However, let’s face the fact that this phrase is more widely used than the correct one, “free rein.”

This is because “free reign” was more popular among the people in past centuries. Its growing prominence and wide adaptation have made it appear correct. That’s why, still in the modern era, people often mistakenly use it in place of “free rein.” 

Free Rein Vs. Free Reign – Which Is Correct?

After having a comprehensive overview of the origins and implications of both terms, it is clear that “free rein” is the correct phrase. Although both of them are phonetically the same, they have significant differences in their root sources and meanings.

When it comes to describing a situation where freedom is guaranteed by someone, people often get confused between these two phrases. Here, a simple thing can clear up the confusion: using “free rein” is grammatically accurate whenever independence is involved.

In contrast, using “free reign” to demonstrate liberty to take action is grammatically wrong. The phrase “free reign” might seem more appropriate to you, but remember, in the English language, it is nothing more than a fabricated term. So, make sure you always use “free rein” rather than “free reign.”. 

Actual Usage In Modern English

As mentioned earlier, despite being incorrect, “free reign” is widely used by both experts and those with less knowledge. However, people with a good command of English, especially the natives, immediately spot this wrong usage at first glance. 

The following examples of the correct use of “free rein” and the incorrect use of “free reign” are enough to show you how and which phrase to use.   

Correct Usage

“The manager gave his team free rein to develop a strategy for the project.”

“Parents often struggle to give free rein to their children while ensuring their safety.”

In both above sentences, “free rein” is correctly used to indicate the liberty being provided to the team and children. 

Incorrect Usage

“The manager gave his team free reign to develop a strategy for the project.”

“Parents often struggle to give free reign to their children while ensuring their safety.”

Here, the phrase “free reign” is incorrectly used instead of “free rein” to create a sense of freedom in action. 

To Sum Up

After going through this article, we hope that now it is clear to you how “free rein” and “free reign” are different from each other. Now that you have gained the correct knowledge, it is your moral duty to promote the use of the right phrase and discourage the use of the incorrect phrase.