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to put the brakes on sth
01
to prevent something from happening or making more progress
What is the origin of the idiom "put the brakes on something" and when to use it?
The idiom "put the brakes on something" originates from the literal action of applying brakes to slow down or stop a vehicle. It has been figuratively extended to describe the act of slowing down, reducing the pace, or stopping the progress of a particular activity, plan, or situation. The idiom emphasizes taking deliberate steps to control or limit the momentum of something, often in response to concerns about its speed or potential consequences.
Example
Concerns about environmental impact led the government to put the brakes on the construction of the new highway.
To avoid burnout, Jane realized she needed to put the brakes on her hectic work schedule.
Faced with rising costs, the company had to put the brakes on their ambitious expansion plans.
