To "box in someone" means to surround them with people or things, making it difficult or impossible for them to move freely, physically or figuratively; it can also metaphorically mean feeling trapped by circumstances, work, or expectations, lacking freedom to act as desired.
Physical Meaning:
- Preventing Movement: When cars are parked too closely, blocking someone in their parking spot.
- Enclosing: Other bicyclists or obstacles surrounding someone, stopping them from moving forward.
Figurative Meaning:
- Feeling Trapped: A person feeling limited in their job and wanting more freedom to be creative.
- Constrained by Politics: Leaders being "boxed in" by political or practical limitations.
- Limited Options: Being prevented from getting something wanted (e.g., "boxed out" of a job).
In essence, it's about being confined, unable to maneuver or make choices due to external constraints, similar to being trapped inside a box
