boss around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "boss around" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the act of giving orders or directing someone in a domineering manner. Example: "She tends to boss around her colleagues, which can create a tense work environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What will it do to kids to have digital butlers they can boss around?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"I imagined her marrying someone she could boss around," Ms. Chouraqui said.

The New York Times - Style

Who needs angry clowns when you've got your own hands to boss around, enhanced by looming scale?

The New York Times

Caroline likes to boss around!

WikiHow

People who judge you or pressure you just want someone that they can boss around, and you deserve better.

WikiHow

You can't boss around 65 million French people.

The New Yorker

There is no computer, and not even any assistants to boss around.

The Economist

"The cows are boss around here, I'm afraid," Grace's mother said.

The New Yorker

He was given unprecedented powers to boss around Whitehall press officers.

The Economist

At the coat check, I ran into a Media Governor who was showing his boss around.

The New Yorker

Carla has at last found a Carla of her own, someone to pity and boss around.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "boss around", consider the connotation of the phrase, as it implies a negative and often unwelcome exercise of authority. Choose it when you want to emphasize the overbearing nature of the control.

Common error

Avoid using "boss around" in professional or academic writing where a more neutral term like "manage", "direct", or "supervise" would be more appropriate. "Boss around" carries a negative connotation unsuitable for formal communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "boss around" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a phrasal verb. It describes an action of exerting control over someone, often in a domineering or unpleasant manner. Ludwig provides several examples demonstrating its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "boss around" is a common phrasal verb used to describe someone exerting control over another, typically in a negative way. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While prevalent in news and media, it is generally considered informal and should be used cautiously in formal settings. For more professional contexts, alternatives like "manage" or "direct" are advisable. Understanding the connotation and context is key to effective use. As Ludwig's examples demonstrate, the phrase is versatile but requires careful consideration of the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

order about

Emphasizes the act of giving commands and directions.

push around

Suggests bullying or intimidation, implying unfair treatment.

call the shots

Highlights the power to make decisions and give direction.

dominate

Focuses on exerting control or influence, not necessarily through direct orders.

run the show

Indicates overall control and management of a situation.

lord it over

Implies a sense of superiority and condescension in exerting authority.

take command

Emphasizes the act of assuming control and leadership.

lay down the law

Focuses on setting strict rules and enforcing them.

be in charge

Highlights the responsibility and authority associated with a position.

take over

Emphasizes assuming control from someone else.

FAQs

How can I use "boss around" in a sentence?

You can use "boss around" to describe someone who gives orders and tries to control others in a domineering way. For example, "She doesn't like it when her manager tries to boss her around."

What's a less negative way to say "boss around"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "manage", "direct", or "supervise" instead of "boss around" to avoid the negative connotation.

What is the difference between "manage" and "boss around"?

"Manage" implies a more collaborative and supportive approach to leadership, while "boss around" suggests an authoritarian and controlling style.

Is it always wrong to "boss around" others?

While "boss around" generally carries a negative connotation, there might be specific situations (e.g. emergency scenarios or when quick decisions need to be made) where taking charge and giving direct orders is necessary, though the tone and manner should still be respectful.