What does “bugger up” mean?
The phrase "bugger up" means to 'ruin, spoil, or mess up'. When someone uses "bugger up", they are describing the act of causing damage, making a mistake, or negatively impacting a situation.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
I really buggered up the presentation. It was a disaster.
Example
He buggered up the recipe by adding too much salt.
Example
She always manages to bugger things up. It's frustrating.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing a failed or disastrous attempt
I really buggered up the presentation. It was a disaster.
He buggered up the recipe by adding too much salt.
- 2Expressing frustration or annoyance with someone's repeated mistakes
She always manages to bugger things up. It's frustrating.
Stop trying to help, you'll just bugger it up even more.
- 3Referring to the act of ruining or spoiling something
Don't let him touch the painting, he'll bugger it up.
I hope I don't bugger up this opportunity.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "bugger up" originated as a British slang term. It is derived from the vulgar term 'bugger,' which refers to a sexual act. Over time, the phrase has evolved to have a more general meaning of 'to ruin' or 'to mess up.' It is commonly used in informal contexts.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "bugger up" is typically used within a sentence to describe an action or outcome. It is not commonly used on its own as a standalone phrase.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "bugger up" can be considered offensive. It originated as a British slang term and is derived from a vulgar term for a sexual act. While it has evolved to have a more general meaning of 'to ruin' or 'to mess up,' its origins can still be offensive to some people.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "bugger up" is more commonly used in British English and may be familiar to people from the UK or those who are familiar with British slang. However, it can be understood by English speakers in general, especially in informal contexts.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
While the phrase "bugger up" originated in British English, it is not specific to a particular accent or region. It can be used and understood by English speakers worldwide, although its usage may be more prevalent in the UK.
