snuff out

[넥서스샤프]

"To snuff out" is an idiomatic expression‎ that means to extinguish or put out something, often referring to a flame, fire, or light.

However, it can also be used in a metaphorical sense to mean to end or terminate something abruptly or forcefully, such as a person's life or an idea or hope.

Here are examples of both literal and metaphorical uses of "snuff out":

Literal use:
"He reached over and snuffed out the candle, plunging the room into darkness."
"Firefighters worked tirelessly to snuff out the forest fire before it could spread further."

Metaphorical use:
"The oppressive regime sought to snuff out any form of dissent, suppressing freedom of speech."
"Her dreams of becoming an artist were nearly snuffed out by financial hardship, but she persevered and succeeded."
"The sudden illness snuffed out his promising career at a young age."

In the metaphorical sense, "snuffing out" often implies the abrupt or decisive ending of something, often with a sense of finality or permanence.