1 B2 idiomatic informal
To give orders to people in an overbearing and often unwarranted way.
"She always bosses everyone about in the kitchen, even when she's a guest."
separable
boss about
B2 informal separable transitive
To tell people what to do in a domineering, overbearing way, especially without the right to do so.
In plain English
To act like a boss and tell people what to do all the time, even when you're not actually their boss.
What does "boss about" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To act like a boss towards people around you — to exercise authority (often inappropriately) over those nearby.
Actually means
To act like a boss and tell people what to do all the time, even when you're not actually their boss.
Usage tip
Primarily British English. Conveys strong disapproval of someone who behaves in an authoritarian or controlling way, especially without having the authority to do so. Very similar to 'boss around', which is more common in American English. Often used when complaining about a controlling person.
Words that pair with "boss about"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
everyone staff colleagues people others kids
How to conjugate "boss about"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
boss about
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bosses about
he/she/it
Past simple
bossed about
yesterday
Past participle
bossed about
have + pp
-ing form
bossing about
continuous
Hear "boss about" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "boss about" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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