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crack down
/kræk daʊn/◆phrasal verb
enforce strictly
The police are cracking down on illegal parking in the city center.
The police are enforcing parking rules strictly in the city center.
formal
To enforce laws or rules more strictly than before.
Authorities cracked down on tax evasion after the new law was passed.
Authorities enforced tax evasion laws strictly after the new law was passed.
The school decided to crack down on cheating during exams.
The school decided to enforce rules against cheating strictly during exams.
Often used in contexts involving law enforcement, regulations, or institutional policies.
Collocations
crack down ontake strict action against
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'crack down' to describe actions taken to enforce rules or laws more strictly. It often implies a change from a previous, more lenient approach.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
'Crack down' is typically used in formal or official contexts, such as law enforcement, government policies, or institutional rules. Avoid using it in casual or informal conversations.
Word Origin
The phrase 'crack down' originated in the early 20th century. 'Crack' here implies a sharp, decisive action, while 'down' suggests suppression or enforcement. The phrase likely evolved from the idea of 'cracking' a problem or issue by applying forceful measures.
Usage Notes
This phrasal verb is typically used in formal or official contexts, such as law enforcement, government policies, or institutional rules. It implies a shift from a lenient or relaxed approach to a strict one.
Word Breakdown
crack
to break or enforce with force
verbdown
indicates reduction or suppression
adverbEnglish Dictionary