Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to nip something in the bud
idiom
/tuː nɪp ˈsʌmθɪŋ ɪn ðə bʌd/
Definition
To stop something at an early stage before it has a chance to grow or become a bigger problem.
Examples
- When the manager noticed the team’s lack of communication, he decided to nip it in the bud by organizing a meeting.
- She saw her child’s bad habit forming and took steps to nip it in the bud before it became worse.
- The teacher quickly addressed the rumors among students, choosing to nip them in the bud.
Meaning
This phrase suggests taking action early to prevent an issue from developing further.
Synonyms
- address early
- stop before it starts
- intervene early
