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butt out

B2 informal intransitive

To stop interfering or getting involved in something that is not your concern; usually used as an imperative.

In plain English

To stop putting your nose in other people's business — to leave someone alone.

What does "butt out" mean?

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To stop interfering in a situation or in someone else's personal affairs; usually a command.

""Butt out!" she snapped. "This has nothing to do with you.""

Usage tip

Primarily American English. Almost always used as a direct imperative command: 'Butt out!' Considered rude or aggressive. The opposite in spirit to 'butt in'. Often used by someone who feels their privacy is being invaded.

Words that pair with "butt out"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

business affairs life relationship decision matters

How to conjugate "butt out"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
butt out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
butts out
he/she/it
Past simple
butted out
yesterday
Past participle
butted out
have + pp
-ing form
butting out
continuous

Hear "butt out" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "butt out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Other ways to say "butt out"

Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.

back off keep out leave it alone mind your own business stay out step back

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