nip in the bud
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Walsh suggested to Sir Jeffrey that he had gone because it was "something you needed to nip in the bud".
From BBC • Jun. 12, 2026
This is a rare emergent epidemic that we can still nip in the bud.
From Salon • Oct. 19, 2023
That sets up the kind of clown-car spectacle that a Chief Justice Roberts—who would prefer to participate in this senate trial from behind a bulletproof screen—would perhaps be moved to nip in the bud.
From Slate • Jan. 15, 2020
Still, to nip in the bud any thought that Merritt might be mistaken for Richardson, "If he cut his hair, I would greatly appreciate it," the lanky Richardson said.
From Reuters • Jun. 27, 2012
I should think it rather a sign that he had no one to tell him of the tricks which mothers generally nip in the bud.'
From The Heir of Redclyffe by Yonge, Charlotte Mary
