nip something in the bud
US /nɪp ˈsʌm.θɪŋ ɪn ðə bʌd/
UK /nɪp ˈsʌm.θɪŋ ɪn ðə bʌd/
1.
to stop something immediately so that it does not become a worse problem
:
•
We need to nip this problem in the bud before it gets out of control.
•
It's important to nip bad habits in the bud.