[pull] the plug
1
to prevent the occurrence or continuation of an activity
The idiom "pull the plug" originates from the literal action of unplugging an electrical device or disconnecting it from its power source, effectively stopping its operation. It has been used figuratively to describe the act of discontinuing or terminating a project, initiative, or situation abruptly and decisively.
- When the funding ran out, the organization had no choice but to pull the plug on their research project.
- The studio decided to pull the plug on the television series due to declining viewership and budget constraints.
- The team will discuss the possibility of pulling the plug on the outdated software during their next meeting.
- The constant technical issues may lead to the decision of pulling the plug on the entire platform.
- The patient's family had to make the painful decision to pull the plug on life support after consulting with medical professionals.