grab by the lapels

grab by the lapels

English

Pronunciation

• Audio (AU)

  (file)

Verb

grab by the lapels

1. (idiomatic) To exert control (over something)
   • 2014, Daniel Taylor, "World Cup 2014: Uruguay sink England as Suárez makes his mark," guardian.co.uk, 20 June:

     Rooney, back in his central role, had a good opportunity soon afterwards but his left foot has never been a great weapon and Suárez was the only attacker here capable of grabbing the game by its lapels.