To nip something in the bud means to put an end to (an idea, movement, etc) in its initial stages.

For example:

I’ve noticed that Tommy’s getting into the bad habit of chewing

with his mouth open. Let’s nip that in the bud.

Why don’t you nip the issue in the bud before it starts affecting

the entire user base?

By arresting all the leaders, they nipped the rebellion in the bud. 

Tradução: cortar o mal pela raiz.