leash
B1Informal to neutral. Formal in certain idiomatic/metaphorical contexts.
Definition
Meaning
A rope, cord, or strap for restraining and controlling a dog or other animal.
Something that serves as a restraint, control, or limit on someone or something; a connection or link.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily associated with dogs; figurative use implies restriction or connection.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
UK more commonly uses 'lead' (pronounced /liːd/) for the physical restraint; 'leash' is understood and used, especially by dog professionals/enthusiasts. US almost exclusively uses 'leash'. In figurative usage, both use 'leash' equally.
Connotations
Neutral in US; slightly more technical/formal in UK compared to 'lead'.
Frequency
High frequency in US; medium-high in UK, where 'lead' is the default.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] put [Object: dog] on a leash.[Subject] keep [Object: person/emotion] on a (tight/short) leash.[Subject] strain at the leash.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “on a short/tight leash (under strict control)”
- “strain at the leash (be eager to begin)”
- “hold/keep in leash (to restrain)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
"The new regulations keep the financial sector on a tight leash." (Metaphorical control)
Academic
Rare; possibly in biological/behavioral studies: "The dog was leash-trained."
Everyday
"Don't forget the leash when you take the dog out."
Technical
In dog training/animal handling: "Use a slip leash for better control."
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- She leashed her spaniel before opening the garden gate.
- The government's new powers are seen as an attempt to leash corporate excess.
American English
- Make sure you leash your dog in the park—it's the law.
- He struggled to leash his anger during the debate.
adverb
British English
- This breed typically walks well leash-on.
American English
- The dog trotted along happily, leash-off in the secure field.
adjective
British English
- Leash-trained puppies are a joy to walk.
- The leash-aggressive dog needed specialist help.
American English
- All dogs must be leash-friendly to enter this store.
- We offer leash-walking services.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My dog has a red leash.
- Please hold the leash tightly.
- You need to put your dog on a leash in this area.
- She keeps her new assistant on a short leash.
- The retractable leash allows the dog more freedom while maintaining control.
- Investors are keeping the startup on a tight leash financially.
- The charismatic leader's hold over the party was akin to an invisible leash, felt but seldom seen.
- The new treaty strains at the leash of national sovereignty.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: A dog on a leash can't LEAVE in a HURRY. LEASH sounds like 'leave' + 'hush'—you leave with it, and it hushes the dog's running.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTROL IS HOLDING A LEASH; RESTRAINT IS A PHYSICAL TETHER; CONNECTION IS A LEASH.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation of 'поводок' as 'cause' or 'reason'. 'Поводок' for a dog is specifically a 'leash' or 'lead'.
- The figurative 'держать на коротком поводке' translates directly to 'keep on a short leash'.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'leash' as a verb without an object (Incorrect: 'He leashed.' Correct: 'He leashed the dog.').
- Confusing 'leash' (noun/verb) with 'lease' (a contract).
Practice
Quiz
In which sentence is 'leash' used metaphorically?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In meaning, they are synonyms for a dog's restraint. 'Leash' is standard in American English. 'Lead' (pronounced /liːd/) is the more common term in British English, though 'leash' is widely understood.
Yes. It means to put a leash on (an animal) or, figuratively, to restrain or control. Example: 'The ordinance requires dogs to be leashed in public spaces.'
It is idiomatic and common in informal and business contexts. In very formal writing, alternatives like 'under strict supervision' or 'closely controlled' might be preferred.
A local law or ordinance that requires dogs to be restrained by a leash when in public areas. Common in both the UK and US, though the terminology ('lead law' is less common in the UK) may differ.