Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to-hold-something-in-check
idiomatic expression
/tə hoʊld ˈsʌmθɪŋ ɪn tʃɛk/
Definition
To restrain or control something, particularly a problem or an emotion, to prevent it from growing or becoming worse.
Examples
- It’s important to hold your anger in check during a heated discussion.
- The government is trying to hold inflation in check by adjusting interest rates.
- She learned to hold her excitement in check until the surprise party was ready.
Meaning
This phrase suggests maintaining control over an issue so it doesn’t escalate or become unmanageable.
Synonyms
- restrain
- control
- contain
- curb
- manage
