Reigning vs. Reining: Know the Difference
By Hifza Nasir & Dua Fatima || Updated on March 4, 2024
Reigning refers to holding royal office or rule, symbolizing authority or dominance in a field, while reining involves controlling or guiding, often used with horses.
Key Differences
Reigning is associated with royalty or leadership, denoting a period during which a sovereign rules or a person holds a championship title. On the other hand, reining refers to the act of controlling or guiding, especially in the context of horse riding, where it involves the use of reins to direct a horse.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
While reigning emphasizes a position of power or being at the top in a certain domain, reining focuses on the method of control or guidance. This distinction highlights the difference between possessing authority and exercising control.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
In a broader sense, reigning can also imply dominance or preeminence in a specific field, such as a "reigning champion." Conversely, reining is often used metaphorically to describe keeping something under control, like "reining in one's emotions."
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
The term reigning is used in contexts that denote a period of rule or championship, suggesting continuity and duration of power. Reining, however, denotes an action or technique, emphasizing the process of control rather than a state of being.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
Comparison Chart
Definition
Holding royal office or being the best in a field
Controlling or guiding, especially with reins
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
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Usage Example
"The reigning monarch" or "the reigning champion"
"Reining in a horse" or "reining in spending"
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
Metaphorical Use
Can denote being at the top in any field
Used to describe controlling or limiting something
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 04, 2024
Reigning and Reining Definitions
Reigning
Reflects a period of authority or championship.
He has been the reigning champion for three consecutive years.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
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Reining
Guiding or controlling, especially a horse.
He was skilled at reining his spirited horse.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
Reigning
Holding supreme power or being the current champion.
She is the reigning queen of pop music.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
Reining
Used metaphorically to imply control.
The government is reining in spending this fiscal year.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
Reigning
Used to describe the ongoing rule of a monarch.
The reigning monarch celebrated 50 years on the throne.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
Reining
Involves the use of reins for direction.
Reining to the left, she steered the horse away from the fence.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
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Reigning
Denotes the current holder of a title.
The reigning world champions will defend their title.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
Reining
Denotes managing or limiting something.
She's reining in her impulses to make impulsive purchases.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
Reigning
Implies dominance in a specific area.
As the reigning market leader, their strategy is closely watched.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
Reining
Refers to the act of exerting control.
Reining in his emotions, he delivered a calm response.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
Reining
Either of two long narrow straps attached to each end of the bit of a bridle and used by a rider or driver to control a horse or other animal
The left rein slipped out of the driver's hands. The rider pulled on the reins, and the horse began to slow down.
Hifza Nasir
Oct 19, 2023
Reining
To check or hold back by the use of reins. Often used with in or up
Reined in the horse.
Hifza Nasir
Oct 19, 2023
Reining
To control a horse, for example, with reins. Often used with in or up.
Hifza Nasir
Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can reigning be used outside of monarchy contexts?
Yes, reigning can also denote being the current champion or the best in any field.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
What does reigning mean?
Reigning refers to holding royal office or being the best in a specific field.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
How is reining used metaphorically?
Metaphorically, reining is used to describe the act of controlling or limiting something, like spending or emotions.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 04, 2024
Can reining apply to situations other than horse riding?
Yes, reining can also metaphorically apply to controlling or managing situations, behaviors, or actions.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
How does one "rein in" something non-physical?
To "rein in" something non-physical, like spending or emotions, means to control, limit, or manage it effectively.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
What is reining in horse riding?
Reining in horse riding involves using the reins to control or guide a horse's movement.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
What does it mean to be the reigning champion?
Being the reigning champion means holding the current championship title in a sport or competition.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
Is reigning always associated with positive connotations?
Reigning often carries positive connotations of success and dominance, but context can influence its interpretation.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
Is there a connection between reigning and reining?
While both involve control, reigning relates to authority or dominance, whereas reining specifically involves guiding or limiting actions.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 04, 2024
What skills are needed for effective reining in horseback riding?
Effective reining requires skills in horsemanship, communication, and control to guide the horse with precision.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
What's the difference in pronunciation between reigning and reining?
Reigning and reining are homophones, meaning they are pronounced the same way despite different meanings.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
How do you "rein in" a difficult horse?
To "rein in" a difficult horse, one uses the reins to gently but firmly guide and control the horse's movements.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
Can a reigning monarch also be "reining in" their power?
Yes, a reigning monarch could metaphorically be "reining in" their power by exercising restraint or control over their actions.
Shumaila Saeed
Mar 04, 2024
Does reining have a specific competitive context?
Yes, reining is also a competitive equestrian sport focusing on riders guiding horses through a series of maneuvers.
Dua Fatima
Mar 04, 2024
Can anyone be described as "reigning" in a non-competitive context?
Typically, "reigning" is used in contexts where there is a competitive or authoritative aspect, though it can be used metaphorically.
Hifza Nasir
Mar 04, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Hifza Nasir
Co-written by
Dua Fatima
Shumaila Saeed
Dua Fatima
Hifza Nasir
