expression, ichidan verb
put on the brakes; apply the brakes
Literal use for slowing or stopping a vehicle or machine.
急にブレーキをかけたので、後ろの車が驚いた。
I suddenly put on the brakes, so the car behind me was startled.
expression, ichidan verb
put a stop to; rein in; curb
Figurative use: stopping or restraining an activity, plan, or behavior.
政府はインフレにブレーキをかける政策を発表した。
The government announced measures to put a stop to inflation.