1.
brake, stopper, chock
A mechanical device used to prevent wheels from turning or a vehicle from moving. Originally referred to wheel chocks.
2.
check, restraint, brake
Something that stops or limits an undesirable trend or action. Often used figuratively to describe measures that prevent escalation or deterioration.
歯止め originally referred to wheel chocks but is now commonly used figuratively to mean putting a check on something.
Common collocations
- 歯止めをかける (put the brakes on, put a stop to)
- 歯止めがかからない (there's no stopping)
- 歯止めが利かない (can't be restrained)
- 歯止めになる (serve as a restraint)
Usage note: The figurative sense (sense 2) is more common in everyday usage. Often used in news and discussions about social issues.