Pronunciation: [pˌʊt bɹˈe͡ɪks] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "put brakes" is relatively straightforward. The word "put" is spelled with the letters p, u, and t, and is pronounced with the IPA phonetic transcription /pʊt/. The word "brakes" is spelled with the letters b, r, a, k, and e, and is pronounced with the IPA phonetic transcription /breɪks/. When these two words are put together, the phrase "put brakes" is spelled the same way but pronounced /pʊt breɪks/.
The phrase "put brakes" typically refers to the action of slowing down or halting a particular process, activity, or situation. It can be understood in a literal or figurative sense, depending on the context in which it is used.
In its literal sense, this expression is commonly used when referring to the act of physically stopping or reducing the speed of a moving vehicle by applying the brakes. For instance, a driver might "put the brakes" on a car to prevent it from colliding with obstacles or to control its speed.
In a figurative sense, the phrase "put brakes" is often employed to describe the act of consciously and intentionally limiting or reducing the pace or progress of something. This could refer to pausing or restraining an ongoing action, project, or plan. For example, a manager may choose to "put the brakes" on a company expansion to evaluate its feasibility or to deal with current challenges.
By using this phrase, individuals or entities aim to exercise caution, prudence, or control over a situation, ensuring a more deliberate approach to prevent unexpected consequences or negative outcomes.
The phrase "put on the brakes" does not have a specific etymology as it is a figurative expression used to indicate slowing down or stopping. However, the word "brake" itself originates from Middle English "brak", from Old English "bræc", which means a device for slowing or stopping the motion of a mechanism. It has its roots in Proto-Germanic "*brakaną" and is related to other Germanic languages such as Old High German "brehhhan" and Dutch "breken". The word eventually evolved to include the meaning of a device used to slow down or stop a vehicle. "Put on the brakes" is a figurative use of the term, suggesting the action of activating the brakes in order to slow down or halt progress.
