Idiom of the Day "Butt in"

 Butt in

• Part of Speech: idiom, slang
• Definition: To interrupt or intrude upon a conversation or situation without invitation or permission
• Synonyms: interfere, meddle, intrude, interrupt
• Transcription: /buht in/

The phrase "butt in" is an idiom that dates back to the early 19th century. Its origins can be traced to the slang term "butt," meaning to thrust oneself forward or intrude. Over time, it evolved to its present-day form, describing the act of interrupting or intruding upon a conversation or situation without invitation or permission.

To "butt in" is to insert oneself into a dialogue or interaction, often without regard for the ongoing flow or dynamics. It can range from innocent interruptions to more intrusive meddling, depending on the context and intentions of the individual involved.

Examples of "butt in" in sentences:

1. "Please don't butt in while I'm explaining my point of view."
2. "His habit of butting in on private conversations earned him a reputation for being nosy."
3. "She couldn't help but butt in when she overheard incorrect information being shared."
4. "The meeting was disrupted when a coworker decided to butt in with unrelated questions."
5. "My neighbor always finds a way to butt in on my personal affairs, offering unsolicited advice."

While there may be instances where "butting in" is appropriate or necessary, it is generally considered impolite and disrespectful to interrupt or intrude upon others without invitation. The art of effective communication involves actively listening, showing respect for others' viewpoints, and knowing when it is appropriate to contribute to a conversation. By practicing restraint and empathy, we can foster more meaningful and harmonious interactions.

June, 2023

Posted by Oxford Language Club

Want to learn english?

About Us