give teeth to (something)

give teeth to (something)

To make something stronger or more effective, especially a rule or piece of legislation. Senators are hoping to give teeth to the healthcare bill by attaching the threat of huge fines to insurance companies that don't comply. You'll never give teeth to the regulations if officers are not allowed to make arrests. The mayor needs to give teeth to these new parking restrictions, or no one will take them seriously.

See also: give, teeth, to

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

give teeth to something

 and put teeth in(to) something

Fig. to make something powerful; to give something a real effect. The severe penalty really gives teeth to the law. Strong enforcement puts teeth in the regulation.

See also: give, teeth, to

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.