What are the definitions of “boss around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Use excessive authority to control people.
He BOSSES everyone AROUND.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “boss around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb boss around is to use excessive authority to control people or to tell them what to do in an overbearing manner. It often implies that the person doing the bossing is being too controlling or demanding.
What are the different verb forms of “boss around”?
| Root Verb | boss around |
| Third Person Singular Present | bosses around |
| Present Participle | bossing around |
| Simple Past | bossed around |
| Past Participle | bossed around |
Example
She always tries to boss people around at school.
Example
He bosses everyone around in the office.
Example
They are always bossing around their younger siblings.
Example
Yesterday, she bossed everyone around during the project.
Example
He felt like he was being bossed around by his coach.
What kind of phrasal verb is “boss around”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“boss around” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She bosses everyone around at school.
Example
He bossed his team around during practice.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“boss around” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She bosses everyone around at school.
Example
He bossed his team around during practice.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “boss around”?
Someone who frequently gives orders and expects them to be followed.
Example
Her bossy behavior makes it hard for others to get along with her.
Good things to know
Does “boss around” have an informal or formal tone?
The phrasal verb boss around is informal and is often used in everyday conversations. However, its tone can come across as direct or even rude, so it's important to consider the context and relationship with the listener. In more formal situations, it's recommended to use more neutral language to convey authority.
