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Region: General | Usage example: Production ground to a halt after the outage.

Grind to a halt

Meaning

Slow down and stop completely.

Usage

Used when referring to abrupt stoppages.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Grinding gears losing momentum.

Used in industrial descriptions since early 20th century.

Related Idioms

Say your piece

Speak your mind completely.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.