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bust

[bʌst]

bust Definition

  • 1to break something
  • 2to arrest someone
  • 3a sculpture of a person's head, shoulders, and chest
  • 4a failure

Using bust: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "bust" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He bust the vase while cleaning the room.

  • Example

    The police busted the drug dealer in a sting operation.

  • Example

    The museum had a collection of ancient Greek busts.

  • Example

    The company went bust due to poor management.

bust Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using bust

  • to become bankrupt or financially ruined

    Example

    The company went bust after the CEO embezzled funds.

  • bust a gut

    to work extremely hard or make a great effort

    Example

    I've been busting a gut to finish this project on time.

  • bust someone's balls

    to harass or tease someone in a persistent and annoying way

    Example

    My friends are always busting my balls about my taste in music.

Phrases with bust

  • bust one's chops

    to criticize or nag someone

    Example

    My boss is always busting my chops about deadlines.

  • to dance, especially in a showy or impressive way

    Example

    The DJ played some great music and everyone was busting a move on the dance floor.

  • bust someone's bubble

    to ruin someone's hopes or dreams by revealing the truth

    Example

    I hate to bust your bubble, but you didn't get the job.

Origins of bust

from Old Norse 'bysta', meaning 'to break'

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Summary: bust in Brief

The term 'bust' [bʌst] has several meanings. As a verb, it can mean to break something or to arrest someone. As a noun, it can refer to a sculpture of a person's head, shoulders, and chest or a failure. It also has various idiomatic expressions like 'bust one's chops' and 'bust a move.' 'Bust' can be used formally in contexts like sculpture and failure, and informally as 'broke' and 'flop.'

How do native speakers use this expression?