Be in somebody’s pocket
verb
To be controlled or influenced by someone.
The politician seems to be in the businessman's pocket, doing whatever he is told.
Often appears as...
- be in someone's pocket
- fall into someone's pocket
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb
To have someone as a certain and reliable source of money.
With his rich uncle in his pocket, John could start his own business.
Often appears as...
- have someone in your pocket
- keep someone in your pocket
Usage tips
Neutral
Idiomatic
verb
To be controlled or influenced by someone.
The politician seems to be in the businessman's pocket, doing whatever he is told.
Often appears as...
- be in someone's pocket
- fall into someone's pocket
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb
To have someone as a certain and reliable source of money.
With his rich uncle in his pocket, John could start his own business.
Often appears as...
- have someone in your pocket
- keep someone in your pocket
Usage tips
Neutral
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Influence Implies
Indicates having power over decisions or actions another person takes.
The new manager is in the CEO’s pocket, rarely making a move without approval.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation
Often suggests corruption or unethical behavior, especially involving politicians or business.
Many believe the regulation passed because the industry leaders had key senators in their pockets.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
It's metaphorical; no physical interaction or money is necessarily involved.
When she got the role, people whispered she must be in the director's pocket.
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