Put your foot down

usgb
phrase

Decide strongly and say clearly that something will or will not happen.

When my children tried to eat ice cream before dinner, I had to put my foot down.
Visual representation of "put your foot down" - Decide strongly and say clearly that something will or will not happen

Often appears as...

  • mom put her foot down
  • he put his foot down

Usage tips

Colloquial, Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "put your foot down"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Assertive Tone

Implies establishing authority or enforcing rules, often by a person in charge.

Illustration for Assertive Tone
Dad put his foot down about my bedtime; no more late nights.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Aggressive

Though firm, it's not hostile or aggressive; it's more of a boundary-setting expression.

Illustration for Not Aggressive
The teacher put her foot down about cellphones in class, but she was still polite.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Figurative Speech

This phrase is metaphorical and does not involve physical movement.

Illustration for Figurative Speech
When employees asked for less work, the boss put his foot down.
Visual representation of the word "Put your foot down"

Never forget "Put your foot down"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top