# butt out

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/butt-out
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. to stop interfering

phrasal verb · CEFR B2 · Informal · Slang

to stop getting involved in something that is not your business.

For teachers: to cease meddling or interfering in a matter that is not one's concern. The verb is intransitive and functions as a forceful directive.

- This is a private conversation between us, so please butt out.
- When the neighbour tried to offer unsolicited advice on their parenting, he told her to butt out and mind her own business.

Usage: Intransitive; often used in the imperative mood as a command.

Teaching tip: This expression is quite rude and confrontational; students should be warned that using it can easily cause an argument.

## Examples

- This is a private conversation, so butt out.
- I told my brother to butt out when he started giving me unwanted advice about my relationship.
- The local council was advised to butt out of the private dispute between the two developers, as any intervention could lead to a conflict of interest.

## Usage notes

- Teaching tip: contrast with 'mind your own business' (similar meaning) and 'stay out of it' (slightly more neutral); note that it is almost always used as an imperative or in the infinitive.

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