Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
call off the dogs
idiom
/kɔːl ɔf ðə dɔɡz/
Definition
To stop someone or something from pursuing or attacking a target, typically used in a figurative sense.
Examples
- After a lengthy discussion, the manager decided to call off the dogs and let the team handle the issue.
- When the criticism became too harsh, she asked her friends to call off the dogs and give her some space.
Meaning
The phrase ‘call off the dogs’ is often used when someone wants to end a negative situation, such as a heated argument or a chase. It implies that an aggressive or threatening action needs to cease.
Synonyms
- Back off
- Stand down
- Reign in
