# bog off

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/bog-off
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To leave, to go away.

## Examples

- I am busy, so just bog off.
- He kept bothering me while I was working, so I told him to bog off.
- When the persistent salesman refused to leave the porch, she firmly told him to bog off and shut the door.

## Origin

The term originated as a shortening and euphemistic alteration of the imperative *bugger off*. While the phrasing provided a slight softening of the original sentiment, the underlying intention to be rid of a person remained entirely unchanged.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.