bring up short

verb2

1. •
   To arrest (someone or something's) forward motion; to halt before a goal is reached.

   • The soldiers spurred their horses forward but were brought up short by Lieutenant Montoya. — 2009
2. •
   (figurative) To startle or interrupt (someone), causing them to stop or reevaluate what they are doing.

   • I suppose things can go well for just so long before events bring you up short. — 2000