clamp down on

VERB

muzzle

Synonyms

STRONGEST

censor choke crack down on muffle repress restrain squelch stifle suppress

STRONG

check cork curb hush ice prevent quieten restrict shush silence squash still stop tongue-tie trammel

WEAK

bottle up dry up dummy up shut down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

allow encourage let go permit release

STRONG

aid assist free help

WEAK

liberate

VERB

quash

Synonyms

STRONGEST

annul crack down on invalidate overrule repeal rescind reverse revoke set aside squelch undo vacate veto void

STRONG

abrogate discharge dissolve kill negate overthrow vitiate

WEAK

black out bottle up cork up declare null and void hush up put damper on put the lid on shut down watergate

Antonyms

STRONGEST

allow approve do enforce keep permit sanction validate

WEAK

aid assist help rebuild start support

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.

But the spontaneity that charmed tourists and supported street vendors in Vietnam's capital has subsided in recent months as authorities clamp down on illegal use of footpaths.

From Barron's • Jun. 2, 2026

A combination of enhanced security at ports, a clamp down on other illegal routes, and the development of organised gangs have reportedly helped contribute to the rise in small boat crossings.

From BBC • May 9, 2026

But it is facing more pressure to clamp down on so-called “side quests” that aren’t helping it meaningfully boost revenue.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

But the city-state is fighting back, including through tough laws that can compel tech giants to clamp down on fraud -- with scam cases and losses down last year for the first time since 2021.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

Matt felt a hand clamp down on his shoulder and pull him out of the line.

From "The House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer

clamp down on

Example Sentences

Related Words