close ranks

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 action closes a chapter in the American experience. I ask all Americans to close ranks, to avoid recrimination about the past, to look ahead to the many goals we share and to work together on the great tasks that remain to be accomplished.”

From Washington Post

Though rivals, the factions close ranks to prevent accountability.

From Seattle Times

House Democrats failed to close ranks around the bill, with some in the party’s growing liberal wing, including members who have called for reduced funding for police, voting “no” or “present.”

From Washington Post

Democrats failed to close ranks around the $1.9 billion measure as every voting Republican balked at the proposal, saying that the price tag was too hefty and that Congress hadn’t done enough to guarantee the money would be spent wisely.

From Washington Post

It would be a step in dismantling the blue wall of silence under which first responders close ranks when they see another officer doing wrong — refusing to intervene even when it would be lifesaving.

From Washington Post