dead hand of the past

• Expression métaphorique désignant l'influence ou le contrôle persistant de traditions, lois ou décisions passées qui entravent le progrès ou le changement dans le présent.

A metaphorical expression referring to the continuing influence or control of past traditions, laws, or decisions that hinder progress or change in the present.

1. Outdated influenceC1formal

   The continuing and often negative influence of past traditions, laws, or practices that hinder progress or change.

   emprise du passé

   • The dead hand of the past still controls many of our outdated regulations.
   • Economic growth is often stifled by the dead hand of the past.
   • The country struggles to modernize under the dead hand of the past.