take a firm grip on



take a firm grip on someone or something

 
1. Lit. to grasp someone or something tightly. The police officer took a firm grip on Fred and led him to the squad car. Mary took a firm grip on the handle and pulled hard.
2. Fig. to gain control of someone or something. You will have to take a firm grip on Andrew. He has a mind of his own. Someone needs to take a firm grip on this department and get it organized.
See also: firm, grip, on, take

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
HeadleyHED-leeEnglish (Rare)
JocelynJAHS-lin (English), JAHS-ə-lin (English)English, French
Sheffield['ʃefi:ld]
Peer-Danish, Norwegian, Swedish
Melody['melədi]
Rigel-Astronomy