Phrasal verb
bug off
Definition
phrasal verb. to go away or leave someone alone. You use this when someone is being annoying and you want them to go.
phrasal verb. to depart immediately; used as a dismissive imperative to someone perceived as annoying. The verb is intransitive and typically occurs in the imperative mood.
Examples
“He tells his brother to bug off when he is busy.”
“The kids were following the gardener around all morning until he finally told them to bug off.”
“While the diplomat attempted to maintain a facade of politeness, his blunt directive for the reporters to bug off revealed his growing frustration with the inquiry.”
Examples
simple
“He tells his brother to bug off when he is busy.”
contextual
“The kids were following the gardener around all morning until he finally told them to bug off.”
complex
“While the diplomat attempted to maintain a facade of politeness, his blunt directive for the reporters to bug off revealed his growing frustration with the inquiry.”
Usage
This phrase is informal and can be offensive, so it is best used in casual situations or when expressing genuine annoyance.
Teaching tip
Teach this alongside other 'off' phrasal verbs like 'clear off' or 'shove off' to show how the particle 'off' often indicates departure or removal.
Pitfall
I told him to bug off me.
I told him to bug off.
The phrase is intransitive, meaning it does not take a direct object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
off
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
bug + off
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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