put the clamps on
put the clamps on (someone or something)
To slow, impede, or stop someone's or something's progress or activities. The recent economic downturn put the clamps on the government's plans for redeveloping the region's transportation system. They put the clamps on our department because they felt our criticism was too damaging to the company's image.
See also: clamp, on, put
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
put the clamps on someone or something
and put the clamps onSl. to impede or block someone or something; to restrain or restrict someone. Fred had to put the clamps on Tony, who was rushing his work too much. Tony is getting a little anxious. Time to put on the clamps.
See also: clamp, on, put
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
put the clamps on
verbSee put the clamps on someone/something
See also: clamp, on, put
McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions
- put the clamps on (someone or something)
- put the clamps on someone/something
- put the brakes on
- put the brakes on (someone or something)
- put the brakes on something
- put on the clamps
- not stand in (someone's or something's) way
- not stand in somebody's way
- the rubber hits the road
- the rubber meets the road