nip it in the bud
2019.04.03
Meaning:
to ‘nip’ something ‘in the bud’ means to remove a small problem before it becomes a big problem. This expression comes from gardening! Flowers in the bud are baby flowers – ie flowers that haven’t opened yet. To ‘nip’ a flower ‘in the bud’ means ‘to cut a baby flower off’. So this expression is useful when we talk about managing problems. For example, ‘I have gained 5kg since I stopped work. So I’m going to nip this in the bud and go on a diet.’
Example:
A: Sachi has started wearing really high heels to work. Is that ok?
B: Mmmm. It’s not great. Look, let’s nip this in the bud. Talk to her now and remind her of the dress code.
A: You’re right. If we don’t nip it in the bud, she might start wearing more and more unacceptable clothes.
Talking Point(s):
How do you deal with problems? Do you avoid them? Do you try to nip them in the bud?
大人からの英会話getgo 西船橋・荻窪・津田沼・本八幡