Pronunciation: [lˈə͡ʊəz ðə bˈuːm] (IPA) 
The expression "lowers the boom" means to assert authority or punish someone. The spelling of the word "lowers" is /ˈlaʊərz/, where the "ow" has an /aʊ/ sound as in "now". The word "boom" is pronounced /buːm/, with the "oo" being pronounced as /uː/ as in "rude". The phrase likely comes from the literal act of lowering a boom, as in a ship's boom, to bring something to a stop or to assert control over a situation.
"Lowers the boom" is an idiomatic expression that is commonly used to describe an action or situation where someone takes a decisive or firm action, usually to enforce discipline, consequences, or punishment for a particular behavior or situation. This phrase is often used to convey the idea of imposing strict measures or delivering harsh consequences without hesitation or leniency.
The phrase "lowers the boom" originates from the imagery of a literal boom, a horizontal bar that is typically used to control the position or movement of a large object such as a sail on a boat. When the boom is lowered abruptly, it swiftly exerts force to bring things under control. Similarly, when someone "lowers the boom," they assert their authority or place strict restrictions on a situation or individual to restore order or address a problem.
Most commonly, this expression is used in contexts of disciplining subordinates, such as a boss delivering strong criticism or punishing an employee for misconduct. However, it can also be used in various other situations where a person in authority takes decisive action, such as a teacher reprimanding a student, a parent scolding their child, or even a government implementing strict regulations. The phrase emphasizes the swiftness, decisiveness, and severity of the action taken, implying that no compromises or leniency will be granted.
