put the brakes on (someone or something)
To slow, impede, or stop someone's or something's progress or activities. The recent economic downturn put the brakes on the government's plans for redeveloping the region's transportation system. They put the brakes on our department because they felt our criticism was too damaging to the company's image.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
put the brakes on someone
Fig. to block someone's activities; to cause someone to stop doing something. (Based on put the brakes on something.) The boss put the brakes on Gerald, who was trying too aggressively to get promoted. We are going to have to put the brakes on you if you make any more difficulties.
put the brakes on something
to halt or impede some process. The manager had to put the brakes on the Wilson project due to lack of funds. We will put the brakes on this project because it is costing too much money.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.