draw in your horns

draw in (one's) horns

To act more cautiously than one did before. I just got this quarter's budget report, and we definitely need to draw in our horns and spend less going forward. I know you love riding your motorcycle, but you're a father now—it's time to draw in your horns. I've definitely drawn in my horns at work now that I know the boss thinks I distract my co-workers too much.

See also: draw, horn

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

draw (or pull) in your horns

become less assertive or ambitious; draw back.

The image here is of a snail drawing in its retractile tentacles when disturbed.

1991 Paul Grescoe Flesh Wound Hollywood's major studios were pulling in their horns in the wake of a disastrous Christmas season.

See also: draw, horn

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

draw/pull in your ˈhorns

start being more careful in your behaviour, especially by spending less money than before: After making huge losses, the company had to draw in its horns by cancelling some major projects.

See also: draw, horn, pull

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017