Nip it in the bud

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Meaning

To stop something early before it grows or worsens, cutting off trouble at its source with swift, decisive action.

Origin

From 16th-century gardening, where nipping buds stopped unwanted plants-Henry Lyte's 1578 herbal notes 'nippe it in the budde' for weeds. By 1607, it was metaphorical, as in a play halting a scheme 'in the bud. ' It reflects Renaissance horticulture and a budding English love of order, growing into a crisp idiom for squashing trouble early, rooted in nature's lessons.

Variants

  • In the bud
  • Nip the bud

Usage Examples

  • Let's nip this gossip in the bud before it spreads.
  • He nipped the argument in the bud with a quick apology.
  • Nip it in the bud; don't let that cold get worse.

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