箍たがを嵌はめる

expression, ichidan verb

hoop a barrel; put a hoop on; bind with hoops

Literal meaning: to fit a metal or bamboo hoop around a barrel or tub to hold the staves together. The expression is also used figuratively for tightening discipline or control.

• 職しょく人にんが桶おけに箍たがを嵌はめている。

  The craftsman is hooping the barrel.

• あのチームは最さい近きん緩ゆるんでいるから、監かん督とくが箍たがを嵌はめないといけない。

  That team has been slacking off lately, so the coach needs to tighten the reins.