close ranks
Frequency: 4.52.8 per million words
Figuratively, to unite to protect oneself or the group from criticism.
Categories:
Examples (10)
- When the establishment is attacked, it closes ranks.
- The political party decided to close ranks after the damaging allegations.
- Facing public scrutiny, the company's executives chose to close ranks and present a united front.
- Despite their internal disagreements, the family closed ranks to support their troubled member.
- The team closed ranks around their coach when his leadership was questioned.
- The community felt it necessary to close ranks against the negative media portrayal.
- In times of crisis, it's common for employees to close ranks and work together.
- The management closed ranks and issued a collective statement defending their decisions.
- Even with differing opinions, the committee agreed to close ranks and uphold the decision.
- After the scandal broke, the organization quickly closed ranks to control the narrative.