# nip in the bud

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/nip-in-the-bud
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To stop something at an early stage.

## Examples

- We should nip this problem in the bud right now.
- The manager decided to nip the conflict in the bud before it caused trouble for the whole team.
- By addressing the initial signs of dissent, the leader managed to nip the potential rebellion in the bud before it could gain any real momentum.

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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.