English Reference
Idiom idiom

put something on ice


Put a projet on hold


SIMPLE

“We put the new project on ice for now.”

CONTEXTUAL

“The manager decided to put the marketing campaign on ice until the budget for next year is approved.”

COMPLEX

“The board of directors chose to put the expansion plans on ice while they waited for the economic situation to stabilize.”


disputed origin

From preserving food on ice before refrigeration; figurative (postpone, keep in reserve) since the 19th century.

Last updated June 7, 2026