What does “bugger off” mean?
The phrase "bugger off" means 'to go away' or 'to leave.' When someone tells another person to "bugger off", they are expressing their desire for that person to leave or go away from their current location. It is often used as a way to show annoyance or to politely ask someone to leave.
How is the expression used in real life?
Learn when and how to use these expressions with these examples!
Example
I told him to bugger off when he wouldn't leave me alone.
I told him to bugger off when he wouldn't leave me alone.
Example
Why don't you just bugger off and leave me alone?
Why don't you just bugger off and leave me alone?
Example
I wish my annoying neighbor would bugger off and stop bothering me.
I wish my annoying neighbor would bugger off and stop bothering me.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Expressing annoyance or frustration
I told him to bugger off when he wouldn't leave me alone.
I told him to bugger off when he wouldn't leave me alone.
Why don't you just bugger off and leave me alone?
Why don't you just bugger off and leave me alone?
- 2Showing a strong desire for someone to leave
I wish my annoying neighbor would bugger off and stop bothering me.
I wish my annoying neighbor would bugger off and stop bothering me.
He kept bothering me, so I finally told him to bugger off.
He kept bothering me, so I finally told him to bugger off.
- 3Using a rude and dismissive tone
She told him to bugger off in a harsh tone.
She told him to bugger off in a harsh tone.
When he started annoying her, she simply told him to bugger off.
When he started annoying her, she simply told him to bugger off.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "bugger off" originated in British English and is derived from the term 'bugger', which is a vulgar slang term for anal intercourse. It is considered a strong and offensive term in many English-speaking countries.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "bugger off" is typically used as a complete sentence or command to tell someone to leave or go away. It is not commonly used on its own without any supporting words.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "bugger off" is considered offensive. It is a vulgar slang term that is used to tell someone to go away in a rude or dismissive manner.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "bugger off" is generally considered offensive and should be avoided in polite or formal settings. It is more commonly used in informal or casual conversations, particularly among friends or peers who are familiar with and comfortable using strong language.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
While the phrase "bugger off" originated in British English, it is also used in other English-speaking countries. However, its usage may vary and it is more commonly used in British and Australian English. It is important to note that the phrase is considered offensive and should be used with caution, if at all, in any region.
