belt and braces

or belt-and-brac·es

[ belt uhn brey-siz ]

adjective

, British

1. relating to or using two or more measures to ensure success:

   The doctor favored a belt-and-braces approach to retinal surgery, using both laser welding and mechanical techniques to secure the retina.

belt-and-braces

adjective

1. providing double security, in case one security measure should fail

   a belt-and-braces policy

Word History and Origins

Origin of belt and braces¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

In an act of belt and braces, the Bill also orders British judges to ignore sections of the Human Rights Act that set out how they should interpret minimum safeguards for fair and just treatment - including the right not to be tortured and the right to a fair hearing.

From BBC

“Exciting times for England? Can’t remember as much depth of talent as this since ... well, forever? The money flushing through the Premier League doesn’t always feel comfortable, but I think there’s no doubt that the strength of coaching has helped bring on local talent. I think that Gareth might be the right man to diplomatically bring them together, too. Belt and braces approach might be what’s needed with the youth and fragile confidence of our years of nearly.”

From The Guardian

But Adam Price, Plaid Cymru's leader, believes the Welsh Government should "take a belt and braces" approach and procure its own supply too.

From BBC

In a statement, a spokesperson said: “Increasing the risk level in the UK is a belt and braces measure which allows the government to plan for all future eventualities.”

From Reuters

Far from trumpeting the male pill as an alternative to female contraception, maybe it should be looked upon more realistically as a mere addition – a useful part of a couple’s contraceptive “belt and braces” programme and one that finally gives the chemically besieged female body a break.

From The Guardian