PUTTING BRAKES Meaning and
Definition
-
Putting brakes refers to the act of slowing down, reducing, or stopping the progress, development, or continuation of something. This expression is derived from the literal action of applying the brakes in vehicles to control their speed or bring them to a halt. Metaphorically, it is used to describe the action of putting a stop or limitation on the advancement of various processes or situations.
Putting brakes implies exercising control, restraint, or caution to prevent or mitigate potential negative consequences or undesirable outcomes. It often involves taking proactive measures to avoid excessive growth, reduce risks, or maintain stability. This can be done to prevent a situation from deteriorating further, to limit potential damage, or to ensure a more controlled and deliberate pace of progress.
The purpose of putting brakes may vary depending on the context. It might be employed to rein in excessive spending or borrowing, to curtail the rapid expansion of a project that may be facing challenges or shortcomings, or to constrain the actions of individuals or organizations when they are deemed to be exceeding certain limits or boundaries.
By putting brakes, individuals, companies, or authorities can exercise prudence, accountability, and responsibility in managing diverse situations. It is an essential strategy to regulate and maintain control over different processes, enabling individuals or entities to mitigate risks, reassess strategies, and prevent potential negative consequences from unfolding.
Common Misspellings for PUTTING BRAKES
Etymology of PUTTING BRAKES
The term "putting brakes" is not a phrase in itself. However, the word "brake" is derived from Middle English "brac" or "brake", which originated from Old English "bræc" and "brecan". These Old English words had the meaning of "an instrument for crushing or pounding", referring to a device used for crushing or breaking things apart. The word "brake" eventually evolved to describe a mechanism used to slow down or stop a vehicle or machine.
