put the clamps on someone/something
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/something
and put the clamps on tv. 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.
See also: clamp, on, put, someone, something
McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions
- put the clamps on
- put the clamps on (someone or 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