Nip It in the Butt vs. Nip It in the Bud
Updated: Dec 21, 2018
Correct idiom:
Nip it in the bud—to stop (something) immediately so that it does not become a worse problem
Nip—(verb) to destroy the growth, progress, or fulfillment of
Bud—(noun) something that has yet to mature or develop
1. We need to nip this bad behavior in the bud by setting ground rules.
Incorrect version:
Nip it in the butt—to catch hold of, pinch, or bite (something) in the buttocks; an anatomical action
1. The goat nipped me in the butt when I walked by.
Source: https://www.merriam-webster.com/