butt in

USAGE SUMMARY

"butt in" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to intervene in a situation without being asked or welcome. For example, "My brother always tries to butt in when I'm talking to my parents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They just want you to not butt in on them.

The New York Times - Magazine

"You can't butt in like that!" one man noisily asserted.

The Guardian - Arts

Now and then, they butt in, stealing the lines for themselves.

The New Yorker

Technology, especially in a performance sedan, shouldn't butt in on the driving experience.

Forbes

So you butt in, while your child's in mid-sentence.

Huffington Post

If he's in a conversation, don't butt in!

WikiHow

It's just natural for them to butt in on everything.

WikiHow

Get your lazy butt in here!

The New Yorker

"Butt in the saddle, back straight, head high," Robin advises.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Butler's way too obvious Kanye West-style butt-in was one of many awkward-silence moments. .

Los Angeles Times

Now! Writing requires butt-in-seat time.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "butt in" to describe informal situations where someone rudely interrupts or interferes. For a formal context, consider "interrupt" or "interject".

Common error

Avoid using "butt in" in formal writing or professional settings. Opt for more appropriate alternatives like "interrupt" or "intervene" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "butt in" functions as an intransitive verb, indicating an action performed by the subject without affecting a direct object. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing interruptions or unwanted entries into conversations or situations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "butt in" is an informal phrasal verb meaning to interrupt or intrude, typically in a rude or unwelcome manner. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, though its use is best reserved for informal contexts. While examples demonstrate its presence in news and media, consider more formal alternatives like "interrupt" or "interject" for professional or academic writing. Remember to avoid this phrase in formal contexts to maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

interrupt

A general term for breaking into a conversation.

cut in

Similar to "butt in" but may also refer to dancing.

interject

A more formal synonym for interrupting.

break in

Implies interrupting a conversation or activity.

chime in

Suggests adding a comment, sometimes unwanted.

intrude

Indicates entering a situation where one is not welcome.

horn in

An informal way to say interfere in.

interfere

A more general term for getting involved in something.

muscle in

Implies forcing one's way into a situation.

meddle

To involve oneself in a matter without invitation.

FAQs

What does "butt in" mean?

"Butt in" means to interrupt or intrude rudely into a conversation or situation.

How can I use "butt in" in a sentence?

You can use "butt in" like this: "It's rude to "interrupt" someone, so don't "butt in" when they're talking."

Are there any synonyms for "butt in"?

Yes, some synonyms for "butt in" include "interject", "interrupt", "chime in", or "cut in".

Is it appropriate to use "butt in" in formal writing?

No, "butt in" is generally considered informal. Use more formal alternatives like "interject" or "intervene" in formal contexts.