hem in

Idioms  

1. see fence in.

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Example Sentences

There were forms and traditions and processes, there were strictures, rules, the law, expectations, all of which would hem in the head of the executive branch, at least eventually.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

Authorities often attempt to hem in or demolish slums rather than extend electricity, paved roads or schools to them.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

The whole world is awash in scammy supplements and overpriced, ineffective diet plans, none of which is subject to the regulation or research requirements that hem in, however imperfectly, the pharmaceutical industry.

From Salon • Sep. 26, 2024

Eight years later before the World Cup semifinal in Japan, England did a reverse V, as if to hem in the New Zealanders.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 31, 2023

When we got home, my mother was sewing a hem in the kitchen.

From "Kira-Kira" by Cynthia Kadohata