English Expression · Intermediate
shut up shop
To bat defensively in the last innings of a match in order to force a draw when winning is not possible
Pronunciation: say shut up shop
Meaning
To close a business or shop permanently.
Example
The company decided to shut up shop in this country and move to America, where corporate taxes are lower.
The company decided to shut up shop in this country and move to America, where corporate taxes are lower.
Practice tips
- Practice shut up shop out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.