Have somebody in your pocket

usgb
phrase

To control or influence someone, usually by having some kind of power or advantage over them.

The mayor has half of the city council in his pocket, which is why he's never seriously challenged on his policies.
Visual representation of "have somebody in your pocket" - To control or influence someone, usually by having some kind of power or advantage over them.

Often appears as...

  • have the law in your pocket
  • have someone in your back pocket

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "have somebody in your pocket"
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Power Dynamics

Used when one person has a strong influence over another, often in politics or business settings.

Illustration for Power Dynamics
He managed to get the contract approved; he clearly has someone important in his pocket.
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Negative Connotation

Carries a negative implication, suggesting corruption or unethical behavior.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
You can't trust her decisions; she's got too many regulators in her pocket.
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Not Literal

It's a metaphorical expression, not meant to be taken literally.

Illustration for Not Literal
With the media in his pocket, his public image remained untarnished.
Visual representation of the word "Have somebody in your pocket"

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