压阵脚

压阵脚

Literally means:

using the most elite branch of the army, to secure the frontline so as to increase one's confidence of winning the battle

Actually means:

阵脚 refers to the frontline or the frontage in ancient battle formation.

This phrase means using the most elite branch of the army, to secure the frontline so as to increase one's confidence of winning the battle. It figuratively refers to keeping a situation well under one's control by adopting an effective measure.

or with the help of an influential person or some mighty force.

阵脚，古代打仗时战斗队列的最前方。

压阵脚，用精兵强将稳定住阵容，增强必定胜利的信心。比喻由强有力的人物或强大的力量，或用有效的措施稳住局面，控制事态的发展。