buster
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
someone or something that breaks, stops, or destroys a specific thing.
an agent or instrument that bursts, breaks, or overcomes a specified target; frequently used in compound nouns.
Simple“The city hired a professional ghost buster to investigate the old library.”
In context“The new legislation was marketed as a trust-buster, designed to dismantle the monopolies that had dominated the energy sector for decades.”
UsageCommonly appears as the second element in compound words like 'blockbuster' or 'myth-buster'.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
a way to address a man, often used when you are annoyed or being aggressive.
a colloquial vocative used to address a male, typically carrying a confrontational, dismissive, or mock-authoritative tone.
Simple“Listen here, buster, you can't park your car in front of my driveway.”
In context“The shopkeeper pointed a finger at the rowdy teenager and told him to move along, buster, before he called the authorities.”
Teacher's tipThis term is often perceived as dated or cinematic; using it in real life can sound like a parody of a tough guy from an old movie.
- 03 C2 Proficiency
a very strong, cold wind that arrives suddenly.
a sudden, violent windstorm or gale, particularly one characterized by a sharp drop in temperature.
Simple“We had to head back to the harbour when the southerly buster hit the coast.”
In context“The sudden arrival of a southerly buster sent pedestrians scurrying for cover as the temperature plummeted ten degrees in minutes.”
UsageMost commonly used in the phrase 'southerly buster' in Australian and New Zealand English.