stem the tide

Idioms  

1. Stop the course of a trend or tendency, as in It is not easy to stem the tide of public opinion. This idiom uses stem in the sense of “stop” or “restrain.” [Mid-1800s]

---

Example Sentences

I observed the left parties and protesters in France working toward a broad coalition in civil society that might stem the tide of the far right.

From Salon • Mar. 28, 2026

City were unable to stem the tide of Tottenham pressure and Solanke produced a sensational scorpion kick equaliser from Conor Gallagher's cross.

From Barron's • Feb. 1, 2026

"If you're swimming in red ink, an infusion of cash helps stem the tide," he said of the bailout.

From BBC • Oct. 7, 2025

A 21-point showing in the loss from USC’s Wesley Yates III could only do so much to stem the tide.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 9, 2025

“This is a most unfortunate affair, and will probably be much talked of. But we must stem the tide of malice, and pour into the wounded bosoms of each other the balm of sisterly consolation.”

From "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen