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.

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

Today, the Since 9/11 charity runs counter-extremism programs in British schools, aiming to nip in the bud the impulses that led to 9/11 and to the attacks that have since taken place in Britain.

From Washington Post • Sep. 10, 2018

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

This tree a perfect emblem is of those Which God doth plant, which in his garden grows, Its blasted blooms are motions unto good, Which chill affections do nip in the bud.

From Works of John Bunyan — Volume 03 by Bunyan, John