# clamp down on

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/clamp-down-on
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To take measures to stop (something); to put an end to (something); to exert tighter control of (something); to treat (someone or something) more harshly.

## Examples

- The school will clamp down on students who arrive late.
- The city decided to clamp down on illegal parking by increasing fines for all drivers.
- In an effort to restore order, the new administration began to clamp down on unauthorized protests throughout the capital city.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.