stop someone in their tracks

Meanings:

• 1.

  General EnglishUSUKneutral
  • To cause a person to halt suddenly and abruptly, especially while walking or moving, because of surprise, shock, fear, or an unexpected event.

• 2.

  General EnglishUSUKneutralfigurative
  • To interrupt or prevent someone's progress, plans, or actions by creating a decisive obstacle or moment of astonishment.