Bring something to a grinding halt
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Immediate Stop
Used to emphasize an activity or process stopping suddenly and completely, without any gradual decline. 
A power outage brought the factory's operations to a grinding halt.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
Figurative use to describe any action or process ending abruptly, not just physical movement. 
When the CEO resigned, it brought the company's expansion to a grinding halt.
Pro Tip 3/3Dramatic Effect
Adds drama or severity to a situation, indicating a forceful or impactful end. 
The bad news brought the celebration to a grinding halt.