box someone in
box in
1. To physically block and thus prevent someone or something from moving from a certain spot. A noun or pronoun can be used between "box" and "in." Well, I guess I'm not leaving yet because that van is boxing in my car.
2. To limit one's options or cause one to feel restricted or stuck. A noun or pronoun can be used between "box" and "in." I'm a very versatile performer—don't just box me in as a comedic actress.
See also: box
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
box someone in
tv. to put someone into a bind; to reduce the number of someone’s alternatives. (see also boxed in.) I don’t want to box you in, but you are running out of options.
See also: box, someone
McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions
- not do (someone or oneself) any favors
- rescue from
- rescue from (someone or something)
- identify with
- attune to
- ask back
- orient
- orient to
- orient to (something)
- involved with