clamp down on
To take measures to stop (something); to put an end to (something); to exert tighter control of (something); to treat (someone or something) more harshly.
The government aims to clamp down on underage drinking.
ADV
firmly, tight/tightly
together
She clamped the two boards together to hold them firmly in place.
PREP
around/round
The mechanic clamped the metal vice around the wooden board to hold it steady.
on/onto
She clamped a tight grip on her son's hand as they crossed the busy street.
over
The carpenter clamped the wood over the bench to hold it steady while drilling.
to
She clamped the wooden board to the workbench before cutting it.
PHRASES
clamped between your teeth
She held a pen clamped between her teeth while arranging the flowers.
clamp shut
The car door clamped shut behind her with a loud click.
PHRASAL VERBS clamp down
ADV
hard
PREP
on
The government has announced stricter measures to clamp down on illegal parking in the city center.