# business end

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/business-end
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The part of an object (chiefly a tool or weapon) that is physically used for its operation, rather than some other part such as the part by which it is held.

## Examples

- Always hold the hammer by the handle, not the business end.
- Keep your fingers away from the business end of the stapler.
- Be careful when you pick up the chainsaw, as the business end is extremely sharp.
- You should never point the business end of a garden hose at someone unless you want to get them completely soaked.
- The chef reminded the new assistant that the business end of the knife must always face down toward the cutting board.
- The technician carefully adjusted the laser, ensuring that the business end was perfectly aligned with the target to avoid any damage to the surrounding equipment.

## Origin

From business + end, a compound of two nouns first recorded in the late 19th century. The term appeared in American English as a designation for the functional or active part of a tool or weapon, distinguishing the area that performs the work from the end held by the operator.

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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.