Top 71 Slang For Discipline – Meaning & Usage

Discipline, a key aspect of success in any endeavor, is often associated with strict rules and punishment. However, there are slang terms that add a fun and modern twist to this concept. Join us as we explore a list of cool and trendy slang for discipline that will not only entertain you but also give you a fresh perspective on this important trait. Get ready to level up your vocabulary and stay ahead of the curve with these innovative expressions!

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Straighten out

To straighten out means to correct or fix a situation or someone’s behavior. It is often used when someone needs guidance or discipline to improve.

  • For example, a teacher might say, “I need to straighten out this student’s behavior before it becomes a problem.”
  • A parent might say, “It’s time to straighten out your room and do your chores.”
  • In a workplace, a manager might say, “We need to straighten out the issues with our project before the deadline.”

2. Crack the whip

To crack the whip means to exert strict control or authority over others. It implies using discipline or strict measures to ensure compliance or productivity.

  • For instance, a coach might say, “I’m going to crack the whip at practice today to push the team harder.”
  • A supervisor might say, “It’s time to crack the whip and make sure everyone meets their targets.”
  • In a group project, someone might say, “We need someone to crack the whip and keep everyone on track.”

3. Lay down the law

To lay down the law means to establish and enforce strict rules or expectations. It is often used when someone in authority sets clear boundaries or guidelines.

  • For example, a teacher might say, “I’m going to lay down the law in my classroom to maintain order.”
  • A parent might say, “I had to lay down the law with my teenager and set some ground rules.”
  • In a company, a manager might say, “It’s time to lay down the law on attendance and punctuality.”

4. Keep in line

To keep in line means to maintain discipline or control over someone. It implies ensuring that someone follows the rules or behaves appropriately.

  • For instance, a teacher might say, “I need to keep my students in line during the field trip.”
  • A supervisor might say, “It’s important to keep your team in line and ensure they meet the project deadlines.”
  • In a group setting, someone might say, “We need someone to keep everyone in line and focused on the task at hand.”

5. Tame

To tame means to control or discipline someone or something. It implies bringing someone or something under control or making them more obedient or manageable.

  • For example, a dog trainer might say, “I need to tame this unruly puppy and teach it some basic commands.”
  • A parent might say, “It’s important to tame your child’s behavior and teach them right from wrong.”
  • In a work setting, a manager might say, “We need to tame the chaos in the office and establish better organization.”

6. School

When someone is “schooled,” they are being taught a lesson or being shown the error of their ways.

  • For example, “He thought he knew everything about politics, but she schooled him on the intricacies of international relations.”
  • In a debate, one person might say, “I’m about to school you on the facts.”
  • A teacher might say to a misbehaving student, “I’m going to school you on proper classroom behavior.”

7. Reel in

To “reel in” someone means to bring them under control or discipline them.

  • For instance, a parent might say to a misbehaving child, “I’m going to reel you in if you don’t start behaving.”
  • In a workplace setting, a supervisor might say to an unruly employee, “It’s time to reel you in and get you back on track.”
  • A coach might say to a player who is not following the game plan, “You need to reel yourself in and focus on the team’s strategy.”

8. Set straight

To “set someone straight” means to correct their behavior or discipline them.

  • For example, a teacher might say to a student who is misbehaving, “I need to set you straight on the rules of the classroom.”
  • In a social setting, one friend might say to another who is gossiping, “Let me set you straight on the facts before you spread false information.”
  • A supervisor might say to an employee who made a mistake, “I’m going to set you straight on the proper procedures.”

9. Put someone in their place

To “put someone in their place” means to assert authority over them or discipline them for their behavior.

  • For instance, a boss might say to an insubordinate employee, “I’m going to put you in your place and remind you of your role.”
  • In a heated argument, one person might say to another, “Don’t make me put you in your place.”
  • A teacher might say to a disrespectful student, “It’s time to put you in your place and teach you some respect.”

10. Show the ropes

To “show someone the ropes” means to teach them the rules or procedures of a particular situation or environment.

  • For example, a mentor might say to a new employee, “I’ll show you the ropes and help you get settled in.”
  • In a sports team, a veteran player might say to a rookie, “I’ll show you the ropes and help you navigate the challenges of the game.”
  • A teacher might say to a new student, “Let me show you the ropes and introduce you to the expectations of this classroom.”

11. Shape up

To “shape up” means to improve one’s behavior, attitude, or performance in order to meet certain standards or expectations. It is often used in a disciplinary context to indicate the need for someone to make positive changes.

  • For example, a coach might say to their team, “You need to shape up and start practicing harder if you want to win.”
  • A teacher might tell a student, “Your grades have been slipping. It’s time to shape up and start studying more.”
  • A boss might say to an employee, “Your work has been subpar lately. You need to shape up or you might lose your job.”

12. Rein in

To “rein in” means to exercise control over someone or something in order to maintain discipline or prevent a situation from getting out of hand. It is often used in situations where there is a need to control or limit someone’s actions.

  • For instance, a parent might need to rein in their child’s behavior if they are misbehaving.
  • A manager might need to rein in their employees if they are not following company policies.
  • A government might need to rein in spending in order to reduce the national debt.

13. Pull up one’s socks

To “pull up one’s socks” means to make an effort to improve or work harder in order to achieve a goal or meet certain expectations. It is often used as a motivational phrase to encourage someone to put in more effort.

  • For example, a coach might say to their team, “We need to pull up our socks and start playing better if we want to win this game.”
  • A teacher might say to a student, “Your grades have been slipping. It’s time to pull up your socks and start studying more.”
  • A boss might say to an employee, “You’ve been slacking off lately. It’s time to pull up your socks and start meeting your deadlines.”

14. Crack down

To “crack down” means to take strict measures to enforce rules or laws in order to maintain discipline or control. It is often used in situations where there is a need to address a problem or prevent certain behaviors.

  • For instance, a government might crack down on illegal immigration by increasing border security.
  • A school might crack down on cheating by implementing stricter penalties.
  • A company might crack down on employee misconduct by implementing a zero-tolerance policy.

15. Clamp down

To “clamp down” means to take strong action to suppress or control something in order to maintain discipline or order. It is often used in situations where there is a need to prevent certain behaviors or actions.

  • For example, a police department might clamp down on drug trafficking by increasing patrols and conducting more raids.
  • A school might clamp down on bullying by implementing anti-bullying programs and disciplinary measures.
  • A company might clamp down on unauthorized internet usage by monitoring employees’ online activities.

16. Knuckle down

To “knuckle down” means to get serious and start working hard on a task or goal. It often implies a need for focus and determination.

  • For example, a teacher might say to their students, “It’s time to knuckle down and study for the upcoming test.”
  • In a work setting, a manager might tell their team, “We have a tight deadline, so let’s knuckle down and get this project done.”
  • A parent might encourage their child by saying, “If you want to improve in soccer, you need to knuckle down and practice regularly.”

17. Toe the line

To “toe the line” means to follow the rules or conform to expectations. It implies a need to stay in line and not deviate from what is expected or required.

  • For instance, a coach might say to their team, “If you want to play on this team, you need to toe the line and follow my instructions.”
  • In a corporate setting, a manager might tell their employees, “We have certain policies in place, and it’s important to toe the line.”
  • A teacher might remind their students, “If you want to succeed in this class, you need to toe the line and complete all assignments.”

18. Drill

In the context of discipline, a “drill” refers to repetitive practice or training. It often involves repeating a task or skill to improve proficiency and discipline.

  • For example, a military sergeant might say, “We need to drill these maneuvers until they become second nature.”
  • In a sports setting, a coach might have their team drill specific plays or techniques to improve performance.
  • A music teacher might tell their student, “You need to drill these scales every day to build finger dexterity.”

19. Curb

To “curb” means to control or restrain one’s behavior. It implies the need to exercise self-discipline and limit certain actions or impulses.

  • For instance, a parent might say to their child, “You need to curb your temper and learn to express your frustrations in a healthier way.”
  • In a workplace, a supervisor might remind an employee, “Please curb your use of personal devices during work hours.”
  • A person trying to lose weight might tell themselves, “I need to curb my cravings for unhealthy snacks and focus on nutritious options.”

20. Haul over the coals

To “haul over the coals” means to reprimand or criticize someone severely. It implies a strong and intense form of discipline or punishment.

  • For example, a teacher might say to a misbehaving student, “I’m going to haul you over the coals if you don’t start behaving in class.”
  • In a work setting, a manager might haul over the coals an employee who consistently fails to meet deadlines or perform their duties adequately.
  • A coach might haul over the coals a player who violates team rules or displays poor sportsmanship.
See also  Top 76 Slang For Hi – Meaning & Usage

21. Call to heel

This phrase is often used to describe a command or demand for someone to obey or submit to authority or discipline.

  • For example, a teacher might say to a misbehaving student, “You need to call to heel and follow the rules.”
  • A parent might use this phrase when their child is being unruly, saying, “I told you to call to heel and stop misbehaving.”
  • In a military setting, a commanding officer might command a soldier to “call to heel” and fall in line with orders.

22. Spank

To spank someone is to administer a physical punishment by striking their buttocks, typically with an open hand.

  • For instance, a parent might say, “If you don’t behave, I’m going to spank you.”
  • In a disciplinary context, a teacher might say, “If you continue to disrupt the class, I will have to spank you.”
  • This term can also be used metaphorically, such as when someone says, “That team got spanked in the game,” meaning they were soundly defeated.

23. Ground

To ground someone is to impose a punishment that restricts their activities and prevents them from going out or participating in certain events.

  • For example, a parent might say to their child, “You are grounded for a week because of your behavior.”
  • In a school setting, a teacher might say, “If you don’t complete your homework, I will ground you from participating in the field trip.”
  • This term can also be used in a broader sense, such as when someone says, “I grounded myself from social media to focus on my studies.”

24. Reprimand

To reprimand someone is to express strong disapproval or criticism of their actions or behavior.

  • For instance, a boss might say to an employee, “I need to reprimand you for your unprofessional conduct.”
  • In a school setting, a teacher might reprimand a student for talking back or not following instructions.
  • This term can also be used as a noun, such as when someone says, “He received a reprimand from his supervisor for his poor performance.”

25. Chastise

To chastise someone is to scold or rebuke them for their behavior or actions, often in a stern or severe manner.

  • For example, a parent might chastise their child for not doing their chores.
  • In a workplace setting, a manager might chastise an employee for repeatedly being late.
  • This term can also be used in a broader sense, such as when someone says, “The media chastised the politician for his controversial remarks.”

26. Stick to your guns

This phrase means to maintain your position or opinion, even when faced with opposition or challenges.

  • For example, “Even though everyone disagreed with him, he decided to stick to his guns and continue with his plan.”
  • In a debate, someone might say, “I respect your opinion, but I’m going to stick to my guns on this issue.”
  • A manager might advise their team, “When faced with criticism, it’s important to stick to your guns and defend your work.”

27. Maintain order

This term refers to the act of ensuring that rules and regulations are followed, and chaos or disorder is minimized.

  • For instance, a teacher might say, “It’s important to maintain order in the classroom to create a conducive learning environment.”
  • In a crowded event, security personnel might be assigned to maintain order and prevent any disturbances.
  • A supervisor might remind their employees, “Please maintain order in the office and follow the established procedures.”

28. Enforce the rules

This phrase means to ensure that rules and regulations are obeyed and that appropriate actions are taken in case of violations.

  • For example, a referee in a sports match might say, “It’s my job to enforce the rules and penalize any infractions.”
  • In a workplace, a manager might enforce the rules by conducting regular audits to ensure compliance.
  • A parent might enforce the rules at home by implementing consistent consequences for their children’s behavior.

29. Follow the protocol

This term refers to the act of following a specific set of rules or steps in order to achieve a desired outcome or maintain order.

  • For instance, in a medical setting, a nurse might say, “It’s crucial to follow the protocol when administering medication to ensure patient safety.”
  • In a military operation, soldiers are trained to follow the protocol to ensure coordination and minimize risks.
  • A company might have a protocol for handling customer complaints, and employees are expected to follow it.

30. Keep a lid on it

This phrase means to keep something under control and prevent it from becoming more intense or chaotic.

  • For example, a manager might tell their employees, “We need to keep a lid on it and not let this issue affect our productivity.”
  • In a heated argument, someone might say, “Let’s keep a lid on it and have a calm discussion instead of yelling.”
  • A parent might advise their child, “When you feel angry, try to keep a lid on it and express your feelings in a calm manner.”

31. Keep it in check

To keep something under control or in order. It is often used when referring to keeping one’s behavior or actions in line.

  • For example, a teacher might say to a student, “You need to keep your talking in check during class.”
  • In a work setting, a supervisor might remind an employee, “Make sure to keep your emotions in check during meetings.”
  • A parent might say to a child, “You need to keep your spending in check and stick to your budget.”

32. Tighten the reins

To exert more control or authority over a situation or person. It is often used metaphorically, comparing control to the action of tightening reins on a horse.

  • For instance, a manager might say to a team, “We need to tighten the reins on this project and ensure everyone is meeting deadlines.”
  • In a parenting context, a parent might say to a teenager, “I’m going to tighten the reins on your curfew because you’ve been coming home late.”
  • A coach might tell a player, “I’m going to tighten the reins on your playing time if you don’t start performing better.”

33. Keep a watchful eye

To be attentive and observant, especially in order to prevent or monitor any problems or issues.

  • For example, a security guard might be instructed to “keep a watchful eye” on a particular area or entrance.
  • A parent might say to a babysitter, “Please keep a watchful eye on the kids while we’re out.”
  • A supervisor might remind an employee, “Make sure to keep a watchful eye on the quality of the products being produced.”

34. Stay on track

To stay focused on a goal or task and not get distracted or deviate from the planned path.

  • For instance, a student might tell themselves, “I need to stay on track and study for my upcoming exam.”
  • In a work context, a manager might say to their team, “Let’s stay on track and complete this project by the deadline.”
  • A personal trainer might encourage a client, “You’re doing great! Just keep pushing and stay on track with your fitness goals.”

35. Keep it under control

To keep something or someone’s behavior in check or within acceptable limits.

  • For example, a teacher might say to a rowdy classroom, “Everyone needs to keep it under control and focus on the lesson.”
  • In a social setting, a friend might say to another friend who is getting too wild, “Hey, keep it under control and don’t do anything you’ll regret.”
  • A manager might remind their employees, “We need to keep our expenses under control in order to meet our budget.”

36. Hold the line

This phrase means to stay firm and not give in to pressure or temptation. It is often used in situations where discipline is required to achieve a goal or maintain order.

  • For example, a coach might say to their team, “We need to hold the line and not let the other team score.”
  • In a business context, a manager might tell their employees, “We’re going through a tough time, but we need to hold the line and stay focused on our goals.”
  • A parent might say to their child, “You need to hold the line and finish your homework before you can go out and play.”

37. Keep it in order

This phrase means to keep things under control and maintain discipline or order. It is often used in situations where there is a need for structure and discipline.

  • For instance, a teacher might say to their students, “Please keep it in order and line up quietly.”
  • In a workplace setting, a supervisor might tell their team, “We need to keep it in order and follow the established processes.”
  • A coach might say to their athletes, “During the game, it’s important to keep it in order and stick to our game plan.”

38. Hold the fort

This phrase means to maintain control and discipline in a particular situation. It is often used in situations where there is a need to maintain order or stability.

  • For example, a supervisor might say to their team, “I’m going to a meeting, so hold the fort while I’m gone.”
  • In a family setting, a parent might tell their children, “I’ll be back soon, so hold the fort and behave.”
  • A team leader might say to their members, “We’re facing a difficult situation, but we need to hold the fort and stay calm.”

39. Keep it together

This phrase means to stay composed and maintain discipline in a challenging or stressful situation. It is often used to encourage someone to remain calm and focused.

  • For instance, a friend might say to someone who is going through a tough time, “I know it’s hard, but you need to keep it together.”
  • In a work environment, a colleague might say to another, “We’re facing a tight deadline, so let’s keep it together and get the job done.”
  • A coach might say to their team before a game, “Stay focused, stay disciplined, and keep it together.”

40. Punish

This term refers to the act of imposing a penalty or consequence for a wrongdoing or disobedience. It is often used in the context of enforcing discipline and teaching a lesson.

  • For example, a teacher might say to a student, “If you continue to misbehave, I will have to punish you.”
  • In a military setting, a superior might say to a subordinate, “Failure to follow orders will result in punishment.”
  • A parent might say to their child, “If you don’t finish your chores, there will be consequences.”

41. Correct

To correct someone means to set them straight or make them understand their mistake. It involves pointing out errors or misconceptions and providing the right information or guidance.

  • For example, a teacher might say, “Let me correct your grammar. It should be ‘I am’ instead of ‘I is’.”
  • A parent might tell their child, “I need to correct your behavior. You shouldn’t be hitting your sister.”
  • In a work setting, a supervisor might say, “I need to correct your approach to this project. We need to focus on efficiency.”

42. Control

To control something means to keep it in check or have power over it. It involves maintaining order, direction, or influence over a situation or person.

  • For instance, a coach might say, “You need to control your temper on the field. It’s affecting your performance.”
  • In a conversation about managing finances, someone might say, “It’s important to control your spending and stick to a budget.”
  • A manager might tell their team, “We need to control the situation and find a solution to the problem.”

43. Regulate

To regulate something means to keep it in line or under control. It involves establishing rules, guidelines, or systems to ensure order, fairness, or compliance.

  • For example, a teacher might say, “We need to regulate the noise level in the classroom to create a productive learning environment.”
  • In a discussion about government policies, someone might argue, “We need stricter regulations to keep businesses from exploiting workers.”
  • A parent might tell their child, “We have rules in this house to regulate behavior and ensure everyone’s safety.”

44. Train

To train someone means to whip them into shape or prepare them for a specific task or goal. It involves teaching, instructing, or conditioning someone to acquire or improve certain skills or abilities.

  • For instance, a coach might say, “We need to train harder if we want to win the championship.”
  • In a conversation about employee development, someone might say, “We should invest in training programs to improve our staff’s skills.”
  • A personal trainer might tell their client, “I’m here to train you and help you achieve your fitness goals.”

45. Manage

To manage something means to keep it on track or in order. It involves organizing, coordinating, or overseeing tasks, resources, or people to achieve a desired outcome.

  • For example, a project manager might say, “I need to manage the team’s workload to ensure timely delivery.”
  • In a discussion about time management, someone might advise, “You should use a planner to manage your schedule and prioritize tasks.”
  • A parent might tell their child, “You need to manage your time effectively to balance schoolwork and extracurricular activities.”

46. Guide

To provide direction or instruction to someone in order to help them navigate a situation or achieve a goal. “Guide” can also refer to a person who leads or directs others.

  • For example, a teacher might say, “I will guide you through this difficult math problem.”
  • A tour guide might explain, “I will guide you through the historical landmarks of the city.”
  • In a discussion about leadership, someone might say, “A good leader should guide their team towards success.”

47. Command

To give authoritative instructions or directives to someone, expecting them to be followed without question. “Command” can also refer to the act of having control or authority over someone or something.

  • For instance, a military officer might command their troops to advance.
  • A parent might command their child to clean their room.
  • In a workplace setting, a manager might command their team to meet a deadline.
See also  Top 56 Slang For Deep – Meaning & Usage

48. Rule

A prescribed guide or principle that governs behavior or actions. “Rule” can also refer to the act of having control or authority over a situation or group.

  • For example, a school might have a rule against wearing hats inside the building.
  • A referee in a sports game might enforce the rules of the game.
  • In a discussion about government, someone might say, “The rule of law is essential for a functioning society.”

49. Check

To inspect or examine something in order to ensure compliance with rules or standards. “Check” can also refer to the act of restraining or controlling someone or something.

  • For instance, a supervisor might check the quality of a product before it is shipped.
  • A teacher might check a student’s homework for completeness.
  • In a discussion about self-discipline, someone might say, “I constantly check myself to make sure I stay on track.”

50. Restrain

To prevent someone or something from acting freely or impulsively. “Restrain” can also refer to the act of controlling or limiting someone’s behavior.

  • For example, a police officer might restrain a suspect during an arrest.
  • A parent might restrain their child from running into the street.
  • In a discussion about anger management, someone might say, “I need to learn how to restrain my emotions in stressful situations.”

51. Curfew

A curfew is a specific time that has been set by a parent or guardian for someone, usually a teenager, to be home. It is a way of enforcing discipline and ensuring that the person follows rules and regulations regarding their time outside of the house.

  • For example, a parent might say, “Your curfew is 10 PM. Make sure you’re home by then.”
  • A teenager might complain, “I hate having a curfew. It feels so restrictive.”
  • In a conversation about parenting, someone might say, “Setting a curfew is important for teaching responsibility and discipline.”

52. Enforce

To enforce means to ensure that rules, regulations, or orders are followed. It is a way of maintaining discipline and making sure that everyone abides by the established guidelines.

  • For instance, a teacher might say, “I will enforce the no-cellphone policy in my classroom.”
  • A police officer might enforce traffic laws by issuing tickets to violators.
  • In a discussion about workplace rules, someone might say, “Our supervisor is strict about enforcing the dress code.”

53. Monitor

To monitor means to keep a close watch or track the activities, behavior, or progress of someone or something. It is a way of maintaining discipline by ensuring that actions are observed and evaluated.

  • For example, a parent might monitor their child’s internet usage to ensure they are not accessing inappropriate content.
  • A teacher might monitor students during a test to prevent cheating.
  • In a conversation about employee productivity, someone might say, “We use software to monitor the time spent on different tasks.”

54. Tough love

Tough love refers to a disciplinary approach that involves being strict or firm with someone for their own benefit. It is a way of showing love and care by setting boundaries and enforcing consequences.

  • For instance, a parent might use tough love by grounding their child for breaking a rule.
  • A coach might use tough love to push their players to perform better.
  • In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “Sometimes tough love is necessary to help someone grow and learn from their mistakes.”

55. Put your foot down

To put your foot down means to assert your authority or take a firm stand on something. It is a way of establishing discipline and showing that you are not willing to compromise on certain issues.

  • For example, a parent might put their foot down and refuse to let their child go out late at night.
  • A manager might put their foot down and enforce a strict deadline.
  • In a conversation about setting boundaries, someone might say, “Sometimes you have to put your foot down to maintain discipline and order.”

56. Show who’s boss

This phrase means to demonstrate or establish one’s dominance or control over a situation or group of people.

  • For example, a manager might say, “I need to show who’s boss and set some ground rules for this team.”
  • In a sports context, a coach might say, “We need to show who’s boss on the field and dominate our opponents.”
  • A parent might use this phrase with their children, saying, “It’s time to show who’s boss and establish some household rules.”

57. Keep in check

To keep something or someone in check means to maintain control or restraint over them.

  • For instance, a supervisor might say, “I need to keep my team in check and ensure they’re meeting their deadlines.”
  • In a personal context, someone might say, “I have to keep my emotions in check during stressful situations.”
  • A teacher might use this phrase with a disruptive student, saying, “You need to learn to keep your behavior in check and follow the classroom rules.”

58. Set boundaries

To set boundaries means to establish clear limits or rules regarding acceptable behavior or actions.

  • For example, a couple might have a conversation about setting boundaries in their relationship, discussing what is and isn’t acceptable.
  • In a workplace context, a manager might say, “It’s important to set boundaries with clients to ensure a healthy work-life balance.”
  • A parent might say to their child, “We need to set boundaries around screen time and establish a schedule.”

59. Keep a tight rein

This phrase means to maintain strict control or supervision over something or someone.

  • For instance, a project manager might say, “I need to keep a tight rein on the budget to ensure we stay within our limits.”
  • In a leadership context, someone might say, “A good leader knows when to keep a tight rein and when to delegate.”
  • A parent might use this phrase when discussing their parenting style, saying, “I believe in keeping a tight rein on my children’s activities to keep them safe.”

60. Keep under control

To keep something or someone under control means to manage or regulate their behavior or actions.

  • For example, a teacher might say, “It’s important to keep the classroom under control to create a productive learning environment.”
  • In a sports context, a coach might say, “We need to keep our emotions under control and focus on the game.”
  • A supervisor might use this phrase with an employee, saying, “You need to keep your workload under control and prioritize your tasks.”

61. Keep tabs on

To closely watch or keep track of someone or something. It implies a sense of surveillance or observation.

  • For example, a parent might say, “I need to keep tabs on my teenager’s online activity.”
  • A manager might instruct an employee, “Make sure to keep tabs on the progress of that project.”
  • In a conversation about a suspicious neighbor, someone might say, “I always keep tabs on him to see what he’s up to.”

62. Keep a lid on

To maintain control over a situation or keep something hidden or confidential. It suggests the need to prevent information or emotions from getting out of hand.

  • For instance, during a heated argument, one person might say, “Keep a lid on your temper!”
  • A politician might try to keep a lid on a scandal by avoiding media attention.
  • In a workplace, a supervisor might say, “We need to keep a lid on this news until the official announcement.”

63. Keep under wraps

To keep something concealed or hidden from public knowledge. It implies the need for secrecy or confidentiality.

  • For example, a movie production might keep the plot under wraps to build anticipation.
  • A company might keep a new product under wraps until its official launch.
  • In a conversation about surprise parties, someone might say, “We need to keep it under wraps so the birthday person doesn’t find out.”

64. Keep a close watch

To observe or monitor closely and attentively. It suggests the need for constant attention and awareness.

  • For instance, a security guard might keep a close watch on surveillance cameras.
  • A parent might keep a close watch on their child in a crowded area.
  • In a discussion about a valuable item, someone might say, “Make sure to keep a close watch on it to prevent theft.”

65. Keep a firm hand

To maintain strict control or authority over a situation or group of people. It implies the need for a strong and unwavering approach.

  • For example, a teacher might keep a firm hand on classroom discipline.
  • A manager might keep a firm hand on a team to ensure productivity.
  • In a discussion about parenting, someone might say, “Sometimes you need to keep a firm hand to establish boundaries.”

66. Keep a firm grip

This slang phrase means to maintain control or authority over a situation or person. It implies being firm and decisive in one’s actions.

  • For example, a coach might say to their team, “Keep a firm grip on the game and don’t let up.”
  • A parent might tell their child, “Keep a firm grip on your studies and don’t let distractions get in the way.”
  • In a work setting, a supervisor might advise their employee, “Keep a firm grip on your deadlines and prioritize your tasks.”

67. Keep a strong hand

This slang phrase means to exercise authority or control over a situation or person. It suggests being assertive and commanding in one’s actions.

  • For instance, a manager might say to their team, “I expect you to keep a strong hand when dealing with difficult clients.”
  • A teacher might advise their students, “Keep a strong hand on your behavior and follow the classroom rules.”
  • In a leadership role, a politician might declare, “I will keep a strong hand in guiding our country towards progress.”

68. Keep a strong grip

This slang phrase means to maintain control or hold onto something tightly. It can be used metaphorically to refer to maintaining control over a situation or object.

  • For example, a hiker might say, “Keep a strong grip on your hiking pole to prevent slipping.”
  • A person giving advice might say, “Keep a strong grip on your finances and avoid unnecessary expenses.”
  • In a sports context, a coach might instruct their player, “Keep a strong grip on the ball to avoid turnovers.”

69. Keep a tight grip

This slang phrase means to maintain a firm hold or control over something. It implies not letting go or losing control.

  • For instance, a driver might say, “Keep a tight grip on the steering wheel to navigate through the winding roads.”
  • A supervisor might advise their employee, “Keep a tight grip on the project timeline and ensure timely completion.”
  • In a relationship, one partner might say to the other, “Keep a tight grip on our shared goals and don’t let distractions pull us apart.”

70. Keep a tight hand

This slang phrase means to exercise strict control or authority over a situation or person. It suggests being vigilant and maintaining a strong grip on the situation.

  • For example, a teacher might say to their students, “I will keep a tight hand on classroom discipline and expect everyone to follow the rules.”
  • A manager might declare, “I will keep a tight hand on the budget and ensure expenses are controlled.”
  • In a household, a parent might say, “I will keep a tight hand on the household chores and expect everyone to contribute.”

71. Keep a close eye

To closely observe or watch something or someone, usually to ensure that they are behaving properly or to prevent any wrongdoing.

  • For example, a teacher might tell their students, “I’m going to keep a close eye on you during the exam.”
  • A parent might say to their child, “I’m going to keep a close eye on your grades this semester.”
  • A supervisor might warn an employee, “I’m going to keep a close eye on your performance to make sure you’re meeting expectations.”