nip in the bud

1.
General (UK, US, other English-speaking regions)neutralformal
- To stop or check something at an early stage before it has the opportunity to develop or grow.
- To prevent the development or spread of a problem by taking early action.
2.
Generalneutral
- Literal horticultural sense: to remove a bud or young shoot from a plant to control growth or shaping.

Examples:

No examples available.