butt out

USAGE SUMMARY

"butt out" is an idiomatic expression used in informal language that means to leave someone or something alone, or stop involving yourself in something that does not concern you.
Example: "I'm not asking for your opinion, so please just butt out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They should butt out".

The Guardian - Money

Should they intervene — or butt out?

The New York Times

So cut ties or butt out".

The New York Times

"I need you to butt out".

The New York Times

" 'Congress, butt out,' " Mr. Conyers said.

The New York Times

Finally, he said, "Butt out, lady".

The New Yorker

He sticks his butt out; he angles his head sideways.

The New York Times - Arts

"You need to stick your butt out more.

The Economist

"She could kick my butt out and she'd be fine.

The New York Times

"I would just tape my ankle, take an anti-inflammatory and get my butt out there".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

She even had a few butt-out moments.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "butt out" when you want to directly and informally tell someone to stop interfering in a situation. Be mindful of your audience, as it can be considered rude.

Common error

Avoid using "butt out" in professional emails or formal presentations. It is considered too informal and may be perceived as disrespectful. Opt for more polite alternatives like "please do not interfere" or "refrain from involvement".

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "butt out" functions primarily as an imperative, used to directly instruct or order someone to stop interfering or involving themselves in a particular situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it conveys a strong message.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "butt out" is a common phrasal verb used to tell someone to stop interfering in something. As Ludwig AI highlights, this expression is grammatically correct and frequently appears in informal contexts, especially in news and media. However, because of its informal and potentially rude tone, it should be avoided in formal or professional settings. Consider using more polite alternatives such as "please do not interfere" or "stay out of it" when a more formal tone is necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stay out of it

This alternative is a more general way of telling someone not to get involved.

mind your own business

This alternative emphasizes the idea that someone is meddling in affairs that don't concern them.

leave it alone

This alternative suggests that the person should stop interfering with something that is already in progress or settled.

don't interfere

This alternative is a direct command to stop interfering in a situation.

keep your nose out

This alternative is a more colorful and informal way of telling someone to stop being nosy.

hands off

This alternative implies that the person should not touch or manipulate something.

back off

This alternative suggests that the person should withdraw from a situation or argument.

cease meddling

This alternative is a more formal way of asking someone to stop interfering.

discontinue intervention

This alternative is a very formal and clinical way to ask someone to stop intervening.

refrain from involvement

This alternative is another formal way of saying to not get involved.

FAQs

What does "butt out" mean?

The phrase "butt out" is an informal idiom that means to stop interfering in something or to leave someone alone. It's a direct way of telling someone to mind their own business.

When is it appropriate to use "butt out"?

Use "butt out" in casual settings with people you know well. It's generally inappropriate in formal or professional situations where politeness is expected.

What can I say instead of "butt out" if I want to be more polite?

Consider using phrases like "please do not interfere", "stay out of it", or "mind your own business" depending on the context and your desired level of formality.

Is "butt out" considered rude?

Yes, "butt out" can be considered rude, especially if said to someone in authority or in a formal setting. Choose your words carefully to avoid causing offense.