To slow down or pause in order to reconsider a situation or action.
When do you use "Pump the brakes"?
This phrase is appropriate in situations where someone is making hasty decisions, acting impulsively, or needs to take a moment to think before proceeding.
"Pump the brakes" Usage Examples
Before you send that email, maybe you should pump the brakes and think about it again.
I know you're excited about the project, but we need to pump the brakes and ensure we have everything in place first.
He was ready to make an investment, but his financial advisor told him to pump the brakes and do more research.
The team was eager to launch the product, but the manager advised them to pump the brakes and finalize the testing first.
When planning the event, let's pump the brakes and consider the budget constraints.
"Pump the brakes" Explained
The phrase 'pump the brakes' originates from driving, where a driver pumps the brake pedal to reduce speed or stop safely. It metaphorically suggests the need to slow down or reassess a decision or action in a non-literal sense, often used when someone is moving too quickly in their thoughts or actions.