to-stem-the-tide
/tə stɛm ðə taɪd/ IELTSAcademic
verb
To stop or slow a bad situation that is getting worse, often only for a short time. It usually suggests a strong effort against a larger force.
- They tried to stem the tide of layoffs.
- New rules may stem the tide of pollution.
- Nothing could stem the tide of rumours.
Adinary Nuance
"To stem the tide" is stronger and more dramatic than "reduce" or "slow down." It often suggests a problem that is already spreading, like losses, violence, or migration. Writers choose it when they want to show urgency and resistance, not just a small decrease.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- ngăn chặn
- Spanish
- frenar
- Chinese
- 遏制
- Japanese
- 食い止める
- Korean
- 저지하다
Etymology
The phrase comes from the old verb "stem," meaning to stop or hold back, and "tide," the rising and falling of the sea. It has been used in English for centuries as a strong metaphor.
Common phrases
stem the tide of violencestem the tide of migrationstem the tide of losses
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is "to stem the tide" formal or informal?
- It is fairly formal and is common in news, reports, and academic writing.
- Can I use "to stem the tide" for small problems?
- Usually no. It fits bigger problems that are spreading or getting worse.
- What is the difference between "stem the tide" and "reduce"?
- "Reduce" is neutral. "Stem the tide" suggests strong action against a growing problem.