Keep a/the lid on something
verb
To prevent something from becoming known or being made public.
The company tried to keep a lid on the bad news about its failing product.

Often appears as...
- keep a tight lid on something
- keep a lid on emotions
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
To control something, especially by making it less than before.
She managed to keep a lid on her temper when dealing with her rude neighbor.

Often appears as...
- keep a lid on frustration
- keep a lid on anger
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
To prevent something from becoming known or being made public.
The company tried to keep a lid on the bad news about its failing product.

Often appears as...
- keep a tight lid on something
- keep a lid on emotions
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
To control something, especially by making it less than before.
She managed to keep a lid on her temper when dealing with her rude neighbor.

Often appears as...
- keep a lid on frustration
- keep a lid on anger
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2

Secrecy Importance
Used when hiding information is crucial, often to avoid panic or gossip.

The government had to keep a lid on the sensitive negotiations.
Not for Gossip
This phrase is used in serious contexts, not just casual conversations.

The CEO decided to keep a lid on the merger talks until a deal was reached.
Protect Reputation
Often involves withholding negative information to maintain a good public image.

Celebrities must keep a lid on scandals to protect their careers.
Secrecy Importance
Used when hiding information is crucial, often to avoid panic or gossip.

The government had to keep a lid on the sensitive negotiations.
Not for Gossip
This phrase is used in serious contexts, not just casual conversations.

The CEO decided to keep a lid on the merger talks until a deal was reached.
Protect Reputation
Often involves withholding negative information to maintain a good public image.

Celebrities must keep a lid on scandals to protect their careers.
Secrecy Importance
Used when hiding information is crucial, often to avoid panic or gossip.

The government had to keep a lid on the sensitive negotiations.
Not for Gossip
This phrase is used in serious contexts, not just casual conversations.

The CEO decided to keep a lid on the merger talks until a deal was reached.
Protect Reputation
Often involves withholding negative information to maintain a good public image.

Celebrities must keep a lid on scandals to protect their careers.
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