get one's hooks into sb/sth

/ɡɛt wˈɒnz hˈʊks ˌɪntʊ ˌɛsbˈiː slˈaʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/

/ɡɛt wˈʌnz hˈʊks ˌɪntʊ ˌɛsbˈiː slˈæʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/

[phrase]

to get one's hooks into sb/sth

[PHRASE]

to get complete control of or to heavily influence someone or something

What is the origin of the idiom "get one's hooks into someone or something" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "get one's hooks into someone or something" is not definitively traceable to a specific source or historical event. However, the phrase likely draws upon the imagery of hooks, which are objects used for catching or securing something firmly. The metaphorical usage of "hooks" in this idiom suggests a strong grip or hold on someone or something, indicating control or influence. It can be used in personal relationships, particularly when one person becomes overly possessive, manipulative, or controlling, exerting a powerful grip on their partner.

Examples

1. She's got her hooks into you.

2. I hate it when big companies get their hooks into something.

3. The big industries like to get their hooks into the bright young people, to subsidize them through their education and then reap the benefit.

4. and she wants something from him to get her hooks into him to manipulate him in some way and sort of use her body to twist him to her purposes it's not really clear if she actually has any genuine interest in him or if she's just using him